BetterMost, Wyoming & Brokeback Mountain Forum

Our BetterMost Community => BetterMost People => Topic started by: David In Indy on July 20, 2007, 03:59:12 pm

Title: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: David In Indy on July 20, 2007, 03:59:12 pm
I have two pets; well four pets actually. I have a 3 year old Golden Retriever named Cody, and a black and white Tuxedo cat named Oreo. I also have two gold fish. My animals bring me great joy, especially when I return home from work. I love being greeted by a pair of cute furry faces and wet kisses.

Do you have any pets? If so, please tell us about them!

I'll post some Cody and Oreo stories as this thread grows.  :D
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: Lynne on July 21, 2007, 01:18:35 am
David - You are so right about how much joy our pets bring us!  It's so easy to take them for granted, but it's really miraculous the unconditional love they give us for so little in exchange.

I have two kitties, Titania & Oberon.  They are brother and sister, 10 years old, born 3/15/97.  Oberon is a gray, black, and white striped tiger-kitty with green eyes.  Titania has Siamese markings and blue eyes, except for white tiger-kitty paws.  I need to take some recent photos and post them!!  Usually they give each other their own space, but once in awhile I come upon them grooming each other or just napping together and it reminds me of when they were babies.

They are also quick to join forces against outsiders, like another animal in the house or vet appointments.  Interestingly, though, Titania doesn't seem to mind car rides or baths, whereas Obie raises a major ruckus .  (You'd think he was being tortured or something!).  One time I am 100% sure I caught Titania acting as lookout while Oberon investigated the Thanksgiving turkey...I swear they communicate telepathically.   ;)

They are back in TN with Mom while I get my act together and find us all new digs in Cali.  I was just missing them because I took my earrings off and put them on the bedside table - not something I can usually do, because Obie plays soccer with earrings (or most anything else) that you place on a flat surface.   :D

I got my kitties after my divorce and they were such good company during those dark first few months.  I remember Price called me to tell me that Killer (the kitty we had together that he 'inherited' from his own family) was hit by a car and died.  I curled up on my bed in my new but mostly empty apartment and cried my eyes out.  Titania and Oberon (a rambunctious 12 weeks old, then) just curled up near me quietly and kept me company.  Somehow they knew that's what I needed then.  Such a barometer of mood.

This is an excellent topic, David.  Another friend reminded me of the importance of our pets recently.  His dog was seriously injured and needed major major surgery.  It sounds like the dog is improving and the prognosis is good.  Let's keep them in our thoughts, though, OK??

Best,
Lynne
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: David In Indy on July 21, 2007, 01:52:03 am

I have two kitties, Titania & Oberon.  They are brother and sister, 10 years old, born 3/15/97.  Oberon is a gray, black, and white striped tiger-kitty with green eyes.  Titania has Siamese markings and blue eyes, except for white tiger-kitty paws.  I need to take some recent photos and post them!!  Usually they give each other their own space, but once in awhile I come upon them grooming each other or just napping together and it reminds me of when they were babies.


This is an excellent topic, David.  Another friend reminded me of the importance of our pets recently.  His dog was seriously injured and needed major major surgery.  It sounds like the dog is improving and the prognosis is good.  Let's keep them in our thoughts, though, OK??

Best,
Lynne

Your cats sound like WONDERFUL friends, Lynne! I can't wait until they join you out in California!

Your story of Killer made me cry!  :'(  I'm glad your two cats were there to comfort you. Pets can act so human sometimes. They seem to instinctively know what we need,  when we need it, and they provide it to us without question or hesitation.

I certainly will keep your friend and his dog in my thoughts and prayers. But I have a good feeling things will turn out just fine. I'm glad to hear this!!  :D

Thanks Lynne!  :-*  :-*
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: Shasta542 on July 21, 2007, 02:01:19 am
I like your Shakespearean monikers for the cats, Lynne. Did you love "A Mid-Summer Night's Dream" or just the names? It's fun to know the story behind the names---it takes a lot of thinking to come up with pet names sometimes.

I can relate to the pets being a comfort, too. When I divorced, I was devastated. I wouldn't sleep in my bed---just lay on the couch and languished. My sweet beautiful Rottweiller, Raven, took every step I took during the day. She slept on the floor beside the couch at night. I'd have to step over her to get up for the bathroom. She was just there---and she was a great protector,too. I lived alone in the country far away from the closest neighbor, but I was never afraid. A couple of years after the divorce, she died of lymphoma. That was a hard time for me---for several weeks, I'd "step" over her when I'd get up at night. I missed her very badly.

I didn't get another dog, but it wasn't long until someone "dropped off" 2 big pups as people are prone to do---out in the country. I started feeding both of them, naturally---one of them adopted me and the other one ran away--I saw her later living at a house a couple miles up the road. I still have "Rusti" who is a big old teddy bear looking chow/shepherd mix. She will be 11 this year. I named her Rusti because she's reddish and spelled it with an "i" because she's a girl. LOL She is a sweetie. She throws a big old baby fit when she gets groomed---she will get my arm in her mouth, but not bite down.

I'm gonna love this thread.


(http://i183.photobucket.com/albums/x221/Shasta542/RUSS.jpg)
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: David In Indy on July 21, 2007, 02:07:57 am

I can relate to the pets being a comfort, too. When I divorced, I was devastated. I wouldn't sleep in my bed---just lay on the couch and languished. My sweet beautiful Rottweiller, Raven, took every step I took during the day. She slept on the floor beside the couch at night. I'd have to step over her to get up for the bathroom. She was just there---and she was a great protector,too. I lived alone in the country far away from the closest neighbor, but I was never afraid. A couple of years after the divorce, she died of lymphoma. That was a hard time for me---for several weeks, I'd "step" over her when I'd get up at night. I missed her very badly.
I didn't get another dog, but it wasn't long until someone "dropped off" 2 big pups as people are prone to do---out in the country. I started feeding both of them, naturally---one of them adopted me and the other one ran away--I saw her later living at a house a couple miles up the road. I still have "Rusti" who is a big old teddy bear looking chow/shepherd mix. She will be 11 this year. I named her Rusti because she's reddish and spelled it with an "i" because she's a girl. LOL She is a sweetie. She throws a big old baby fit when she gets groomed---she will get my arm in her mouth, but not bite down.

I'm gonna love this thread.[/b][/color]

(http://i183.photobucket.com/albums/x221/Shasta542/RUSS.jpg)

Damnit!! Now I'm crying again!!!  :'(

Ya'll stop that!!!   :'(  *sniff*



I'm so glad you have Rusti now Shasta!! She sounds like a WONDERFUL member of your family! Cute too! I love the pic of her you posted!  :D  :D
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: Shasta542 on July 21, 2007, 02:32:08 am
Thanks, David. She's one of "the herd" as my family calls my pets. I'll tell ya about the others too. It's not that I just went out and got a bunch of dogs--all but 2 were strays or rescues or people didn't want them anymore because they had a baby (can you imagine that). I love them all, but no more additions to the family for now!! They all get along and they all mind me (mostly). And they've all been spayed or neutered!! If one of them had babies, I'd want to keep them all, no doubt.
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: Lynne on July 21, 2007, 02:34:25 am
That's a great picture of Rusti, Shasta.  Thank you for posting it - she's really adorable!  I love that she gets your arm but doesn't 'bite down'.  They KNOW!!!

I hear you about the 'stepping over' for weeks.  I'm sorry you lost your Raven to lymphoma.  Never enough time with them, is there? :'( :'(

And I guess divorce is another thing we have in common, hunh?

Titania likes to sleep on me - usually on my hip.  So when I roll over at night, I reach down to hold her while I move so she's disturbed as little as possible ::) and then she usually settles back to sleep.  I catch myself doing this when she's not there...Must not disturb sleeping kitties - it's a cardinal rule, you know.   ;)

Most mornings with them I awake like I haven't moved all night because it's likely true...

Got the names because I was re-reading it at the time (an English minor in a former life)...I often bury myself in books when depressed...and it just seemed to fit, being they are siblings.  They were rather ridiculous when they were babies, but they've grown into them...usually I shorten them to 'Obie' and 'Tania'.

OK - one more pet story then I MUST go to sleep.  A few years ago, Titania & Oberon look after my Mom.  Usually they sleep with either Mom or me (they've become more 'hers' than mine because she's home with them all day).  So, Mom and I are sleeping and my brother gets home from work around midnight (3-11 shift) and the kitties greet him at the door and mill around the kitchen.  It occurs to him that this is unusual - they are usually in our rooms, so he goes to check on Mom.  Sure enough, she'd gone to the bathroom by herself and fallen, essentially passed out in the bathroom floor.  It turned out to be a mini-stroke.

I got a lot to say over in the Aging Parents thread, but I'm not up for it just now.  I'm glad we have it though, to talk about a lot of these things.

Pets rule.
 8)
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: Shasta542 on July 21, 2007, 02:42:05 am
Quote
Must not disturb sleeping kitties - it's a cardinal rule, you know.   
  LOL

So Titania and Oberon are rescue kitties!! That's amazing. I'm sure they are great company for your mom, too. You've read all the data on pets being good for lowering blood pressure and giving older adults something to look forward to---taking care, feeding, etc. I think it's true.

Have fun on all your travels!!! I see you are going on the train trip as well as to Alberta! That's wonderful, Lynne. Looking forward to hearing about the trips and seeing the pictures.
 
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: mvansand76 on July 21, 2007, 04:28:34 am
I have two pets; well four pets actually. I have a 3 year old Golden Retriever named Cody, and a black and white Tuxedo cat named Oreo. I also have two gold fish. My animals bring me great joy, especially when I return home from work. I love being greeted by a pair of cute furry faces and wet kisses.

Do you have any pets? If so, please tell us about them!

I'll post some Cody and Oreo stories as this thread grows.  :D

Great idea for a thread sweetie!  8)

I don't have any pets now because I have extreme allergy for cats and dogs among many other animals. We used to have an Afghan Hound, Muscha, he is still with me in my heart... I actually still miss him so much, even if it is more than 23 years ago that we had him...
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: David In Indy on July 21, 2007, 04:39:14 am
Great idea for a thread sweetie!  8)

I don't have any pets now because I have extreme allergy for cats and dogs among many other animals. We used to have an Afghan Hound, Muscha, he is still with me in my heart... I actually still miss him so much, even if it is more than 23 years ago that we had him...

See now?? Ya'll did it to me again!!!  :'(  :'(

Lord, I can't stop crying!  :'(

Yes, you told me about Muscha before Melissa. He sounds like he was a WONDERFUL dog!!! I'm glad you have many good memories of him.  :)

Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: dot-matrix on July 21, 2007, 10:59:40 am
Someone sent me this when my first Golden Retriever, Reeba died, it still makes me cry

Just this side of heaven is a place called Rainbow Bridge.

When an animal dies that has been especially close to someone here, that pet goes to Rainbow Bridge. There are meadows and hills for all of our special friends so they can run and play together. There is plenty of food, water and sunshine, and our friends are warm and comfortable.
 
All the animals who had been ill and old are restored to health and vigor. Those who were hurt or maimed are made whole and strong again, just as we remember them in our dreams of days and times gone by. The animals are happy and content, except for one small thing; they each miss someone very special to them, who had to be left behind.
They all run and play together, but the day comes when one suddenly stops and looks into the distance. His bright eyes are intent. His eager body quivers. Suddenly he begins to run from the group, flying over the green grass, his legs carrying him faster and faster.

You have been spotted, and when you and your special friend finally meet, you cling together in joyous reunion, never to be parted again. The happy kisses rain upon your face; your hands again caress the beloved head, and you look once more into the trusting eyes of your pet, so long gone from your life but never absent from your heart.

Then you cross Rainbow Bridge together.... 
 
Author unknown...

I've got lots of canine friends waiting for me at that bridge   :'(  my babies
 
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: Scott6373 on July 21, 2007, 12:05:00 pm
I love my little Grady, but everday I think about Rupert and cry.  He was my baby, and I miss his kisses and gentle spirit.  I miss his deep and abiding love for carrots, and his tail that twirled like the propeller of and airplane when he was excited.  He left me so quickly, I hope, everday, that he knows how much love and joy he brought to our lives.
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: mvansand76 on July 21, 2007, 02:16:27 pm
I love my little Grady, but everday I think about Rupert and cry.  He was my baby, and I miss his kisses and gentle spirit.  I miss his deep and abiding love for carrots, and his tail that twirled like the propeller of and airplane when he was excited.  He left me so quickly, I hope, everday, that he knows how much love and joy he brought to our lives.

 :'( :'( :'(

How long did you have him? I bet he knew, Scott, dogs have such an amazing sense of these kinds of things... I hope Grady will heal the wounds a bit, although it might of course never entirely heal.

 :-*
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: opinionista on July 21, 2007, 02:29:08 pm
I think we can use a little humor. I've always loved this one from The Far Side. It's so true!

(http://i78.photobucket.com/albums/j120/nataligv_2006/143296774_97691615cb.jpg)

http://www.thefarside.com/ (http://www.thefarside.com/)
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: Shasta542 on July 21, 2007, 02:39:19 pm
I love my little Grady, but everday I think about Rupert and cry.  He was my baby, and I miss his kisses and gentle spirit.  I miss his deep and abiding love for carrots, and his tail that twirled like the propeller of and airplane when he was excited.  He left me so quickly, I hope, everday, that he knows how much love and joy he brought to our lives.

What kind of dog was Rupert? It is like a loss in the family to me too. Sometimes they are there for ya when no one else is. I can still think of dogs I've loved--even from childhood--and cry from missing them.

I've had friends say they'll never get another pet when they lose one---too hard to bear. But I would have missed out on a lot of love and happiness if I'd let a broken heart keep me from making a home for another pet. Everyone grieves differently.

Grady is such a cute bundle of joy!! I loved it when my dogs were puppies---fun stuff. (Except that by the time I got my "mastador" raised, she had eaten my house.) She grew up to be a responsible member of the family, I'm happy to say---her sisters and brothers look up to her as a role model now. LOL
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: delalluvia on July 21, 2007, 04:57:50 pm
I had two cats from when I was very young - Algie and Tanne. They both died of old age infirmaries at the ages of 17.5 and 14 years.  They were my loves and much beloved.

I was and still am in grief over their losses...but they had long happy lives, full of travel and adventure, ease and some hardship - for cats.  So I can't grieve too much.  They had satisfying lives and passed over without fear.

We should all be so lucky.

I, too, hope to see them - and other loved pets who have passed - and share some part of our afterlives together due to my overweening love for them...but as a friend pointed out, while it goes without saying that I loved them, it doesn't necessarily follow that they loved me.  So I decided to just hope that they have a great afterlife and if they choose to share some part of it with me when the time comes, then I'll be grateful.

Dogs are bit more obvious when it comes to signs of love and affection shared than cats.  ;)

My current beloveds - the "K" cats as my sister calls them - (l-r) Kabuki and Kenobi, who - despite being shining examples of purebreeds - unlike their predecessors - are just bursting at the seams with intelligence and personality:

(http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v728/Jovieve/mycats.jpg)

Despite the beauty mark, Kenobi is the adventuresome, tough one, full of curiosity and contrariness and is channeling the Dark Side.  I should have named her Anakin for all the trouble she causes and gets into.  She is very loving but, like her owner, prefers to seek affection only when she wants it.

Kabuki is the diva - proud, vain, jealous, high strung, vastly loud, amazingly affectionate and an extremely timid homebody.  She jumps at her own shadow.  She reminds me of that internet joke that goes around - The Commandments for Cats "the dog has lived in the backyard for 6 years, thou shalt not freak out everytime thou sees it". 
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: Scott6373 on July 22, 2007, 08:56:44 am
What kind of dog was Rupert? It is like a loss in the family to me too. Sometimes they are there for ya when no one else is. I can still think of dogs I've loved--even from childhood--and cry from missing them.

I've had friends say they'll never get another pet when they lose one---too hard to bear. But I would have missed out on a lot of love and happiness if I'd let a broken heart keep me from making a home for another pet. Everyone grieves differently.

Grady is such a cute bundle of joy!! I loved it when my dogs were puppies---fun stuff. (Except that by the time I got my "mastador" raised, she had eaten my house.) She grew up to be a responsible member of the family, I'm happy to say---her sisters and brothers look up to her as a role model now. LOL


Rupert was also a TT, and we had him for 12 years.  We just lost him this past April, and it was very quick.  Liver cancer that grew so rapidly, it was impossible to take care of surgically.  Grady is a welcome addition right now, but sometimes I think that it could have been too soon.
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: mvansand76 on July 22, 2007, 09:26:56 am
I had two cats from when I was very young - Algie and Tanne. They both died of old age infirmaries at the ages of 17.5 and 14 years.  They were my loves and much beloved.

I was and still am in grief over their losses...but they had long happy lives, full of travel and adventure, ease and some hardship - for cats.  So I can't grieve too much.  They had satisfying lives and passed over without fear.

We should all be so lucky.

I, too, hope to see them - and other loved pets who have passed - and share some part of our afterlives together due to my overweening love for them...but as a friend pointed out, while it goes without saying that I loved them, it doesn't necessarily follow that they loved me.  So I decided to just hope that they have a great afterlife and if they choose to share some part of it with me when the time comes, then I'll be grateful.

Dogs are bit more obvious when it comes to signs of love and affection shared than cats.  ;)

My current beloveds - the "K" cats as my sister calls them - (l-r) Kabuki and Kenobi, who - despite being shining examples of purebreeds - unlike their predecessors - are just bursting at the seams with intelligence and personality:

(http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v728/Jovieve/mycats.jpg)

Despite the beauty mark, Kenobi is the adventuresome, tough one, full of curiosity and contrariness and is channeling the Dark Side.  I should have named her Anakin for all the trouble she causes and gets into.  She is very loving but, like her owner, prefers to seek affection only when she wants it.

Kabuki is the diva - proud, vain, jealous, high strung, vastly loud, amazingly affectionate and an extremely timid homebody.  She jumps at her own shadow.  She reminds me of that internet joke that goes around - The Commandments for Cats "the dog has lived in the backyard for 6 years, thou shalt not freak out everytime thou sees it". 

Oh they are precious! Look at the facial expression of Kabuki!!!

 :D
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: Brokeback_Dev on July 22, 2007, 09:43:34 am
Hi everyone.   Sorry about your sadness scott.  Sometimes i think about what i will do without my dogs and it really scares me.  My sympathies go out to you.   

I have a pure bread Jack Russel Terrier. JRT's were bred to be working dogs.  He's been with us for a little over 7 years.  I picked him from a litter or I should say he picked me.  I visited him regularly at the farm where i bought him from before he was ready to come home.  i love that little dog.  His name is Coby. 

Next is our Border Collie.  Ironically they are working dogs too, bred as sheep herders.  We rescued him from an abusive family.  We went through a lot with him.   It took a lot of patience, and much time, love and devotion to make him who is today; a wonderful beautiful pet named Boomer

Then we have Candy.  She a pit bull.  Normally i would never even entertain the thought of having such a beastly dog, but Candy~omg she's so sweet.  She came here around Christmas.  Hence the name Candy Cane  We rescued her too.  She's white and has a black ring around one eye like Pete on the Little Rascals

Both Boomer and Candy are about 1 year old now.

We have cats too. Right now we have a black and white cat named Merlin, after the magician, and Thumper whose our oldest pet.  He's pure white with one blue eye and one gold eye. He must be about 8 or 9 years old.

And we used to have birds as well.  Ill tell you I never cried harder then when we buried our Quaker Parrot.  He was amazing.  My god i could have a 10 minute conversation with that bird.  He had quite a vocabulary, tough im not so sure he knew what he was saying.  :)
 
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: Kelda on July 23, 2007, 04:28:44 pm
My pets as an adult were sooty and skimble - rescue kittens whose mum had been run over so they were hand reared - they were grat and like Lynne really got me through a miserbale tome when I had just split from my long term boyfriend and I thought i was going to be alone forever. They are such great company.

For those of you who read my blog you know that sadly at the end of May, Sooty was clipped by something and killed.   :'(

I got up today and toddled about as I normally do on a sunday. It wasn't until tea time that I realised that, I hadn't seen one of my cats, Sooty for a while.  I went out and did a bit of a walk looking and calling for him after he didn't come when I called. I never found him. Callum went out and found him. He was dead - lying on the grassy verge of the road (a bus route road which isn't particularly busy. It seems he has been clipped by a car. He was only about 100 metres from the house. I'm so upset. I guess it happened late last night or this morning. He is black so difficult to see but he still had his reflective collar on.

We took him over to my mums and she has buried him in a very large pot and put my grans rose bush on top of him. (I have stone chips in my garden as I'm not green fingered.. my mum has made me some pots up to colour the garden but I'm useless at watering them.) I'll bring it back over and put it in the garden in a few weeks. I'll be sure to water that pot thats for sure.


Skimble is much more meowy these days and is enjoying a bit more attention - I have my Mums cat and dog staying with me at the moment and I think he feels a bit lost as he doesn't have his friend to gang up on them. he's staying upstairs a lot... but we're still making sure to cuddle him at night. Here he is playing with his toys....

Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: David In Indy on July 23, 2007, 04:34:56 pm

(http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v728/Jovieve/mycats.jpg)


Kabuki reminds me of one of those Egyptian cat statues!  :D

They're both beautiful animals Delalluvia!  :)
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: David In Indy on July 23, 2007, 04:36:10 pm
My pets as an adult were sooty and skimble - rescue kittens whose mum had been run over so they were hand reared - they were grat and like Lynne really got me through a miserbale tome when I had just split from my long term boyfriend and I thought i was going to be alone forever. They are such great company.

For those of you who read my blog you know that sadly at the end of May, Sooty was clipped by something and killed.   :'(

Skimble is much more meowy these days and is enjoying a bit more attention - I have my Mums cat and dog staying with me at the moment and I think he feels a bit lost as he doesn't have his friend to gang up on them. he's staying upstairs a lot... but we're still making sure to cuddle him at night. Here he is playing with his toys....



Skimble looks like he is very happy and loved. That's a cute picture of him Kelda! I LOVE cats!!  :D
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: Kelda on July 23, 2007, 04:47:47 pm
hee.. if you open it up you can realy see him biting in at that toy!
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: injest on July 24, 2007, 01:42:46 am
(http://i60.photobucket.com/albums/h2/etexjess/twokitties.jpg)

my kitties....Milli is the black girl
and Crybaby is the tabby...a boy.

Crybaby thinks I am his and he is VERY jealous of me. Yesterday I was petting Milli and Crybaby (as always) was laying beside me watching...suddenly he stood up reached over and SLAPPED her across the face!! he B**** slapped her!

I fussed at him of course...

poor Milli....she is too gentle for that big ol galoot!

Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: Ellemeno on July 24, 2007, 01:56:03 am
Calling that whack that a cat does a B****slap is perfect!  :laugh:
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: Shasta542 on July 25, 2007, 01:04:24 pm
Hey Elle---It was JESS who coined the "cat b***h slap" term that we were trying to remember in chat!!

Here is an article about the benefit of having pets:


http://boomers.msn.com/articleGH.aspx?cp-documentid=413531&GT1=10214 (http://boomers.msn.com/articleGH.aspx?cp-documentid=413531&GT1=10214)
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: delalluvia on July 25, 2007, 09:51:14 pm
(http://i60.photobucket.com/albums/h2/etexjess/twokitties.jpg)

my kitties....Milli is the black girl
and Crybaby is the tabby...a boy.

Crybaby thinks I am his and he is VERY jealous of me. Yesterday I was petting Milli and Crybaby (as always) was laying beside me watching...suddenly he stood up reached over and SLAPPED her across the face!! he B**** slapped her!

I fussed at him of course...

poor Milli....she is too gentle for that big ol galoot!


Milli reminds me of my old cat Algie.  She was the aggressive one though.  She had the heart of a lion.  Once, when she was very old, my bf at the time was tickling me and playfully put a piillow over my head as I squealed.  He suddenly made a noise and stopped and when I looked up he said, amazed, "Your cat attacked me.  She heard you making noise and she ran up to me and just batted at me and hissed!"

My Algie was declawed.

"That scrawny little cat, I could just pick her up and wring her neck!"

I grinned, "I said she was brave, not smart."

 :(  I miss my Algie.   :'( :'( :'(
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: delalluvia on July 25, 2007, 09:54:56 pm
Kabuki reminds me of one of those Egyptian cat statues!  :D

They're both beautiful animals Delalluvia!  :)

Thanks.   ;D  My last boyfriend didn't like Kabuki's type of breed.  He liked oriental cats with 'apple heads' not 'wedgeheads' which is what Kabuki is.  He called her my 'ratbat gremlin cat'.  Years and years ago, a relative had a lilac-point wedge-head Siamese cat.  I had never seen one before and her look just fascinated me and after that I always wanted one.  So, when my old cats passed away, she was the first one I got.
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: Brown Eyes on July 25, 2007, 10:28:50 pm
So here's the famous Vivien!  She's my 2 year old sweetie-pie. 

<img src="http://www.divshare.com/img/midsize/1371839-b51.jpg" border="0" /> (http://www.divshare.com/download/1371839-b51)
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: David In Indy on July 25, 2007, 10:31:18 pm
So here's the famous Vivien!  She's my 2 year old sweetie-pie. 

<img src="http://www.divshare.com/img/midsize/1371839-b51.jpg" border="0" /> (http://www.divshare.com/download/1371839-b51)

She's a BEAUTIFUL black cat Amanda!!  :D
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: Shasta542 on July 25, 2007, 10:31:53 pm
So here's the famous Vivien!  She's my 2 year old sweetie-pie. 

<img src="http://www.divshare.com/img/midsize/1371839-b51.jpg" border="0" /> (http://www.divshare.com/download/1371839-b51)

Hello Vivien!! She's so cute---all comfy and ready for a cuddle.    
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: Brown Eyes on July 25, 2007, 10:41:38 pm
Thanks Shasta! 
 ;D

Yup, this is Vivien lounging on an air mattress that I recently had out when I had some guests at my apartment.  Vivien loves the air mattress (and it's a miracle that it can stand up to her claws and enthusiasm... but so far so good).
 :)
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: huntinbuddy on July 25, 2007, 11:30:34 pm
My puggle, at 10 weeks age, October 06

(http://i165.photobucket.com/albums/u70/gertie_06/IMG_0715.jpg)


and this one taken last month (10 months age)

(http://i165.photobucket.com/albums/u70/gertie_06/IMG_0957.jpg)
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: Shasta542 on July 25, 2007, 11:36:53 pm
My puggle, at 10 weeks age, October 06

(http://i165.photobucket.com/albums/u70/gertie_06/IMG_0715.jpg)


and this one taken last month (10 months age)

(http://i165.photobucket.com/albums/u70/gertie_06/IMG_0957.jpg)

What's his name? He is very cute--looks likes Jake's "Boo". Is he laid back mostly? I wondered what kind of personality a puggle has. I've had a beagle before, but no pugs.   :)
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: Shasta542 on July 25, 2007, 11:39:34 pm
(http://i183.photobucket.com/albums/x221/Shasta542/NICK007.jpg)

This is my little scruffy snuggle-buddy. Her name is Nicki and she is a constant companion. She'll be 8 in September. I woke her up to take her picture---she doesn't mind, tho. She's cool.
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: huntinbuddy on July 25, 2007, 11:54:40 pm
What's his name? He is very cute--looks likes Jake's "Boo". Is he laid back mostly? I wondered what kind of personality a puggle has. I've had a beagle before, but no pugs.   :)

Actually, she is a spayed (as of Jan 07) little girl.  Her name is Gertie.

I had a pair of Pugs before her.  The male lived 10 years, and the female was 15 years before she died in 05.  I went a year with no pet, and then was scanning the ads in the paper one morning for
another Pug, but all that was listed was Puggles.  I went to see them, and fell in love with them.    Gertie had three sisters, and two brothers.  One of her siisters found a home just a few blocks from
where I live, so we go to visit her a lot on our evening walks; and she comes and visits us also.

She is very active, as most puppies are.  Likes to chew up anything in sight.  Just today, she destroyed on of the solar powered lights on my deck.  But she does chew on her toys if they are available.
A Puggle is the mating of a Beagle and a Pug.  Gertie is a first generation mating between a purebred Beagle female, and a purebread Pug male.

She definitely has more Beagle than Pug characteristics.  She loves to dig, chase rabbits and birds.  When she is out and about, the nose stays on the ground the whole time.  I might add, that when the nose is working,
the ears have a tendency to not work!

Something that is really cool, is that she is bilingual.  She has the short little yap of a Pug with things that are smaller than her, but if a deer is in the backyard, or if a big dog strolls by, she howls like a Beagle,

She is very affectionate, and loves to cuddle.  She sleeps with me every night.

Here is another one...

(http://i165.photobucket.com/albums/u70/gertie_06/IMG_0830.jpg)
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: Brown Eyes on July 26, 2007, 12:02:06 am
(http://i183.photobucket.com/albums/x221/Shasta542/NICK007.jpg)

This is my little scruffy snuggle-buddy. Her name is Nicki and she is a constant companion. She'll be 8 in September. I woke her up to take her picture---she doesn't mind, tho. She's cool.



Adorable!

 :D
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: Shasta542 on July 26, 2007, 12:06:24 am
Quote
Actually, she is a spayed (as of Jan 07) little girl.  Her name is Gertie.

What an irresistible little face!!! Bilingual---that's funny! I love to hear a beagle howling.

I understand about the chewing. OMG--I have been through 2 vertical blinds on my sliding glass door, and several of my kitchen cabinets have been chewed up along with some door facings and a table and chairs. And they had PLENTY of toys!!

I'm glad your deck light was solar powered and not electric!! One of my dogs chewed up a fan cord (it was totally in half) that was plugged in. I have no idea how he kept from getting zapped.

Anyway--with that face of Gertie's I'm sure it's hard to stay mad at her!
 ;D
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: injest on July 26, 2007, 12:08:35 am
So here's the famous Vivien!  She's my 2 year old sweetie-pie. 

<img src="http://www.divshare.com/img/midsize/1371839-b51.jpg" border="0" /> (http://www.divshare.com/download/1371839-b51)

Vivien looks like she has a bit of Siamese in her somewhere!

Cute kitty...
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: Shasta542 on July 26, 2007, 12:08:59 am

Adorable!

 :D

Thanks, ATZ!! She's a really good little dog. She goes to the bank, grocery store, Sonic, --- anywhere I go in town -- and hangs her head out the car window like a hound dog while she rides.  :)
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: David In Indy on July 26, 2007, 02:33:04 am
Awesome animal pictures huntingbuddy, Amanda, Jess and Shasta!!! Such beautiful animals!  :D

Here's my two babies!


Cody, my 3 year old golden retriever. He's a big baby and he thinks he's very cool!  8)

I love this picture. I love the look on his face, because he often has this exact same facial expression. It's a "I don't really care because I'm a happy dog and I love everybody" look.  :D

(http://i77.photobucket.com/albums/j43/Davidindy/codysmall33-1.jpg)



This is Oreo, my 3 year old Tuxedo cat! He thinks he's very cool too!  8)

I just tickled his tummy in this picture and he's stretching out waiting for some more loving!  :D

(http://i77.photobucket.com/albums/j43/Davidindy/oreothecat.jpg)


Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: Fran on July 26, 2007, 12:53:50 pm
I got a whippet.  Ten years old.  Sleeps a lot.  :)

(http://i198.photobucket.com/albums/aa188/ffrraann/DSC01971.jpg)

Her name is Madison, and she's a real sweetheart.  She loves the sofas and the beds!
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: Shasta542 on July 26, 2007, 07:26:03 pm
Awesome animal pictures huntingbuddy, Amanda, Jess and Shasta!!! Such beautiful animals!  :D

Here's my two babies!


Cody, my 3 year old golden retriever. He's a big baby and he thinks he's very cool!  8)

I love this picture. I love the look on his face, because he often has this exact same facial expression. It's a "I don't really care because I'm a happy dog and I love everybody" look.  :D

(http://i77.photobucket.com/albums/j43/Davidindy/codysmall33-1.jpg)



This is Oreo, my 3 year old Tuxedo cat! He thinks he's very cool too!  8)

I just tickled his tummy in this picture and he's stretching out waiting for some more loving!  :D

(http://i77.photobucket.com/albums/j43/Davidindy/oreothecat.jpg)

David---Cody is beautiful. He looks like he's very perceptive and intelligent. Friendly, too--like he'd offer a paw to shake hands And like he might enjoy a good game of fetch!! Does he bring back his toys or make you chase him?? Do Cody and Oreo get along well? I expect they do. Oreo is very pretty---love that name---it's perfect.
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: Shasta542 on July 26, 2007, 07:30:19 pm
I got a whippet.  Ten years old.  Sleeps a lot.  :)

(http://i198.photobucket.com/albums/aa188/ffrraann/DSC01971.jpg)

Her name is Madison, and she's a real sweetheart.  She loves the sofas and the beds!

"Sleeps a lot."  LOL.  Madison sounds like my 10 year old dogs!! I am not familiar with whippets---I have seen them in dog shows, but not in person. She looks very sweet and cute---what were whippets bred for? Aren't they built somewhat like a greyhound?  
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: David In Indy on July 26, 2007, 07:46:41 pm
David---Cody is beautiful. He looks like he's very perceptive and intelligent. Friendly, too--like he'd offer a paw to shake hands And like he might enjoy a good game of fetch!! Does he bring back his toys or make you chase him?? Do Cody and Oreo get along well? I expect they do. Oreo is very pretty---love that name---it's perfect.

Hi Shasta!  :D

Yes, Cody is a very friendly dog and he loves everyone! I've never seen Cody growl at anyone, except a friendly growl when he's playing tug-of-war or some similar game. He never snaps at people and he never barks at people either. He barks at noises, but just as quick as he realizes the noise is coming from a person, he'll stop. He does bark at other animals though.

Yes, he's a fetcher! He loves it when I play frisbee with him in the back yard. Sometimes we will play at night. I have a glow in the dark frisbee and for some reason it fascinates him when it's glowing. I always know when he wants to play. He'll sit down facing me and he'll put one of his paws on my knee. Then he'll look over at the door, then back at me, then over at the door. This is his way of telling me he wants to go out back and play. He has many toys and I keep them stored in a toy box in my living room. Most of the time Cody will pick up his toys when he's finished playing with them and deposit them back inside the toybox, if I remember to leave the lid open.

Yeah, Cody and Oreo get along very well. Oreo picks on Cody sometimes though. He'll slap Cody in the face with his paw for no reason what so ever, and sometimes Oreo will sit in front of Cody and slowly swing his front paws back and forth; kind of like karate. I think he does this to irritate Cody. Cody will just sit there and watch him until he tries to swipe Cody across the face.   >:(

Oreo is kind of weird though. Sometimes he will suddenly jump up and start hissing and yowling for no reason. He's done this ever since he was a kitten. I have no idea why he does it. And sometimes they will chase each other through the house in the middle of the night. There's been many nights when I've awakened to a crashing sound downstairs. Cody will start skidding on the hard wood floors and slide into something.

They're my buddies and I love them!  :D

Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: David In Indy on July 26, 2007, 07:49:29 pm
Fran, Madison is pretty. I love those big soulful eyes of hers!  :D
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: Fran on July 26, 2007, 09:59:01 pm
"Sleeps a lot."  LOL.  Madison sounds like my 10 year old dogs!! I am not familiar with whippets---I have seen them in dog shows, but not in person. She looks very sweet and cute---what were whippets bred for? Aren't they built somewhat like a greyhound?  

Shasta, whippets are down-sized greyhounds with some terrier blood mixed in, so basically it's the same look.  I think they were bred for rabbit coursing or racing.

Madison is super-model skinny -- very thin, even for a whippet.  She's thin-skinned, and you can literally see through her legs when the sun shines.
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: Fran on July 26, 2007, 10:05:57 pm
Fran, Madison is pretty. I love those big soulful eyes of hers!  :D

Thanks, David.  Cody is gorgeous, too.

In fact, I think we all have some very photogenic pets.  I'm loving the pictures on this thread.

Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: Fran on July 26, 2007, 10:12:07 pm
Here's some photos (I've already posted the one of Charlie on another thread).
Our gorgeous gentle Robbie
(http://i148.photobucket.com/albums/s31/Susiebell_album/Family%20Photos/Robbie.jpg)
Our sweet little chatterbox Joey
(http://i148.photobucket.com/albums/s31/Susiebell_album/Family%20Photos/Joey.jpg)
Our beautiful Nutmeg (alas no longer with us .... but very much loved)
(http://i148.photobucket.com/albums/s31/Susiebell_album/Family%20Photos/Nutmeg1.jpg)
Our handsome Stuart Little (also no longer with us .... but also very much loved)
(http://i148.photobucket.com/albums/s31/Susiebell_album/Family%20Photos/Stuart.jpg)
And our wonderful, deliquent dog, Charlie ...don't let the innocent face fool you!!!
(http://i148.photobucket.com/albums/s31/Susiebell_album/Family%20Photos/Charlie4.jpg)

Susie, were Nutmeg and Stuart Little guinea pigs? 

How does Charlie get along with Robbie?  I don't think Robbie would last very long at our house.  :(

What a cute picture of Charlie sleeping with his stuffie!
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: Brown Eyes on July 26, 2007, 10:59:58 pm

(http://i77.photobucket.com/albums/j43/Davidindy/codysmall33-1.jpg)



This is Oreo, my 3 year old Tuxedo cat! He thinks he's very cool too!  8)

I just tickled his tummy in this picture and he's stretching out waiting for some more loving!  :D

(http://i77.photobucket.com/albums/j43/Davidindy/oreothecat.jpg)

Absolutely adorable David!!!  Cody does look like a very happy dog indeed!  And, I love tuxedo cats.  Someday if Vivien winds up with a brother or sister, odds are that it will be tuxedo cat.

I picked out Vivien from an animal shelter (a really nice, no-kill shelter here in Pittsburgh) with the idea of getting a black cat in mind.  I love the way they look (such beautiful cats), but I've also heard that black cats end up in shelters in disproportionate numbers compared to other kinds of cats (due to people's superstitions, etc.).  And, it seemed to be true... at the shelter there were a ton of black cats. 

Anyway... thanks to everyone for posting all these fantastic pics!  I love animals!
 :D
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: Shasta542 on July 27, 2007, 01:53:47 am
Quote
Oreo is kind of weird though. Sometimes he will suddenly jump up and start hissing and yowling for no reason. He's done this ever since he was a kitten. I have no idea why he does it.

Ya know.....Sylvia Browne, the psychic who is on Montel every week, says that some animals can see spirit guides and other psychic phenomena and will behave accordingly. Maybe Oreo is seeing your spirit guide when he does all that! I'm not saying I believe her or disbelieve her---I just try to keep an open mind about things like that.
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: Shasta542 on July 27, 2007, 02:11:52 am
Oakley. She doesn't mind very well. And she rarely sits still. She's a mix. Here she is running and fetching and sniffing and shaking. This is the bad dog who smuggles the frogs into the house.  ;D

(http://i183.photobucket.com/albums/x221/Shasta542/OAKLEY009.jpg)(http://i183.photobucket.com/albums/x221/Shasta542/OAKLEY007.jpg)(http://i183.photobucket.com/albums/x221/Shasta542/OAKLEY006.jpg)(http://i183.photobucket.com/albums/x221/Shasta542/OAKLEY004.jpg)(http://i183.photobucket.com/albums/x221/Shasta542/OAKLEY003.jpg)(http://i183.photobucket.com/albums/x221/Shasta542/OAKLEY002.jpg)(http://i183.photobucket.com/albums/x221/Shasta542/OAKLEY001.jpg)
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: Kelda on July 27, 2007, 03:49:25 am
I picked out Vivien from an animal shelter (a really nice, no-kill shelter here in Pittsburgh) with the idea of getting a black cat in mind.  I love the way they look (such beautiful cats), but I've also heard that black cats end up in shelters in disproportionate numbers compared to other kinds of cats (due to people's superstitions, etc.).  And, it seemed to be true... at the shelter there were a ton of black cats. 

Really? That's very odd indeed. All the more reason to love my Skimble!
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: Ellemeno on July 27, 2007, 04:48:12 am
I wonder also if black is genetically dominant so there just plain ARE more of them too.

Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: Fran on July 27, 2007, 09:53:02 am

I picked out Vivien from an animal shelter (a really nice, no-kill shelter here in Pittsburgh) with the idea of getting a black cat in mind.  I love the way they look (such beautiful cats), but I've also heard that black cats end up in shelters in disproportionate numbers compared to other kinds of cats (due to people's superstitions, etc.).  And, it seemed to be true... at the shelter there were a ton of black cats. 

It seems that the same holds true for black dogs, too.  :(

http://www.blackpearldogs.com/
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: David In Indy on July 27, 2007, 02:58:25 pm
People sometimes sacrifice black cats on Halloween. They're always telling people to keep their black cats inside during that time. I don't know if it's true, but I don't understand how ANYONE could do something like that to an animal!  >:(  :'(
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: Scott6373 on July 27, 2007, 03:07:49 pm
Awesome animal pictures huntingbuddy, Amanda, Jess and Shasta!!! Such beautiful animals!  :D

Here's my two babies!


Cody, my 3 year old golden retriever. He's a big baby and he thinks he's very cool!  8)

I love this picture. I love the look on his face, because he often has this exact same facial expression. It's a "I don't really care because I'm a happy dog and I love everybody" look.  :D

(http://i77.photobucket.com/albums/j43/Davidindy/codysmall33-1.jpg)



I see the resemblance darlin' :)
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: David In Indy on July 27, 2007, 03:57:02 pm
I see the resemblance darlin' :)

Hmmm. Well, Cody is very good looking. I think he is. So I'll take this as a compliment Scott!  :D

Or did you just call me a DOG!!??  >:(  ;)

 :laugh:  :laugh:
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: Scott6373 on July 27, 2007, 03:59:03 pm
Hmmm. Well, Cody is very good looking. I think he is. So I'll take this as a compliment Scott!  :D

Or did you just call me a DOG!!??  >:(  ;)

 :laugh:  :laugh:

David, you may be many things, but unattractive is not one of them...and you should know me well enough by now, that if I called you a dog, that would be a very high compliment coming from me.   :-*  Love ya more than my luggage you mid-western ol hunk-o-man you.
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: David In Indy on July 27, 2007, 04:58:23 pm
Scott, you should tell us about your puppy!! How's he doing these days? Has he been playing any cute hijinks lately?  :)
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: delalluvia on July 27, 2007, 08:16:35 pm
I got a whippet.  Ten years old.  Sleeps a lot.  :)

(http://i198.photobucket.com/albums/aa188/ffrraann/DSC01971.jpg)

Her name is Madison, and she's a real sweetheart.  She loves the sofas and the beds!

I love whippets and the other sight hounds.  SOOO classy looking (you notice my oriental shorthair cat Kabuki, I'm very fond of that slender, slinky look in animals).

My older brother told us about a famous Whippet - Ashley Whippet - he saw once who used to be a champion/amazing Frisbee catcher.

But alas, I've read that if one has cats, one should avoid getting a sight hound as they tend to chase things.
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: Fran on July 27, 2007, 11:07:24 pm
Hi Fran,

Stuart and Nutmeg are both hampsters.  Don't mention the words "Guinnea pig" to me ... my littleist one's been begging us to let her have one!!

Charlie adores Robbie ... Robbie tolerates Charlie!!

Susie  (http://smileys.smileycentral.com/cat/11/11_1_201.gif)

Of course, hampsters.  I always get them confused.  LOL
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: delalluvia on July 27, 2007, 11:12:51 pm
Of course, hampsters.  I always get them confused.  LOL

What are "hampsters"?  Are they the same thing as hamsters or a different breed?
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: Shasta542 on July 27, 2007, 11:19:43 pm
Hamsters, a bird, a dog, a bunny!!!! I would love it around your house, Susie! Now if you just had a miniature horse or one of those little fainting goats. LOL  

Since the hamsters have passed on---(they had the cutest little faces)---then I think you should get the guinea pig that your little one wants!!   ;D  No cats tho--the bird and the rabbit might be too tempting.  :P

I love the names ya'll picked--Joey, Robbie, Charlie, and Stuart---those could just be your other 4 children.   ;)  I love the name Nutmeg too.
 
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: David In Indy on July 27, 2007, 11:20:17 pm
What are "hampsters"?  Are they the same thing as hamsters or a different breed?

Susie lives in England, Delalluvia. Maybe that's how they spell it over there. I think I've seen it spelled that way before.  :)
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: David In Indy on July 27, 2007, 11:23:16 pm
Hamsters, a bird, a dog, a bunny!!!! I would love it around your house, Susie! Now if you just had a miniature horse or one of those little fainting goats. LOL  

Since the hamsters have passed on---(they had the cutest little faces)---then I think you should get the guinea pig that your little one wants!!    ;D  No cats tho--the bird and the rabbit might be too tempting.  :P

I love the names ya'll picked--Joey, Robbie, Charlie, and Stuart---those could just be your other 4 children.   ;)  I love the name Nutmeg too.
 

I had a guinea pig when I was little. He was jet black. I named him Tribbles because he sounded like one of those tribbles from Star Trek when he cried. He was so cute and a very nice little pet. He lived an unusually long time for a guinea pig too.  :D
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: Shasta542 on July 27, 2007, 11:23:44 pm
I've had hamsters, turtles, snakes, chickens, calves, dogs, cats, and goldfish for pets, but I have never had a bird. I'd like to have a bird one day, but the girl who comes and lets my dogs out is deathly afraid of birds--so I'd better pass for now.
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: Shasta542 on July 27, 2007, 11:26:19 pm
I had a guinea pig when I was little. He was jet black. I named him Tribbles because he sounded like one of those tribbles from Star Trek when he cried. He was so cute and a very nice little pet. He lived an unusually long time for a guinea pig too.  :D

Awwww...I remember those tribbles. I have a plant in my flower bed that I call my pet plant--it kinda looks like a tribble, but it's green. LOL.  I've never had a guinea pig either, but I think they are cute.  
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: David In Indy on July 27, 2007, 11:29:40 pm
Awwww...I remember those tribbles. I have a plant in my flower bed that I call my pet plant--it kinda looks like a tribble, but it's green. LOL.  I've never had a guinea pig either, but I think they are cute.  

They are cute Shasta. They are very gentle and loving animals. Very affectionate and quite smart too. At least my little Tribbles was!
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: Fran on July 27, 2007, 11:34:07 pm
I love whippets and the other sight hounds.  SOOO classy looking (you notice my oriental shorthair cat Kabuki, I'm very fond of that slender, slinky look in animals).

My older brother told us about a famous Whippet - Ashley Whippet - he saw once who used to be a champion/amazing Frisbee catcher.

But alas, I've read that if one has cats, one should avoid getting a sight hound as they tend to chase things.

Delalluvia,

Your Kabuki is one gorgeous cat.  I guess I like my animals long and lean, too.

As for sighthounds and cats, I know there are some ex-racing greyhounds that are cat-friendly.  Maybe it depends on the dog.  

Ashley Whippet is famous.  He even has an entry in Wikipedia.  How cool that your brother got to see him in person!

I found this at wwwcoloradodiscdogs.com:

In 1974, 50,000 spectators at Dodger Stadium in Los Angeles jumped to their feet and cheered when an uninvited canine athlete named Ashley Whippet ran 35 miles an hour, leaped nine feet in the air, and caught Frisbee discs from his owner Alex Stein for eight uninterrupted minutes between innings. But neither that audience, nor the millions watching the pennant-crucial game between the Los Angeles Dodgers and Cincinnati Reds on television, could have predicted they were witnessing the birth of a canine competition that would soon thrill legions of dog lovers throughout the world. Ashley's national stadium debut was engineered by his owner Alex Stein, then a student at Ohio State. When Hollywood talent scouts failed to return Stein's calls, he took matters into his own hands and smuggled Ashley into Dodger Stadium on the evening of August 4, 1974. Ashley went on to break all records, winning the Canine Frisbee Disc World Championships three times.

Later, Ashley starred in a television commercial, entertained Amy Carter and her friends at the White House, performed at halftime at Super Bowl XII, and was a guest with Stein on such television programs as: "Wide World of Sports," "Good Morning America," "The Tonight Show," and others. He entertained at practically every NFL and Major League Baseball stadium in the United States and Canada, and starred in "Floating Free" -- a film documentary nominated for an Academy Award.


(http://www.coloradodiscdogs.com/images/ashley_whippet.jpg)

Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: delalluvia on July 28, 2007, 12:49:31 am
Delalluvia,

Your Kabuki is one gorgeous cat.  I guess I like my animals long and lean, too.

As for sighthounds and cats, I know there are some ex-racing greyhounds that are cat-friendly.  Maybe it depends on the dog. 

Ashley Whippet is famous.  He even has an entry in Wikipedia.  How cool that your brother got to see him in person!

I found this at wwwcoloradodiscdogs.com:

In 1974, 50,000 spectators at Dodger Stadium in Los Angeles jumped to their feet and cheered when an uninvited canine athlete named Ashley Whippet ran 35 miles an hour, leaped nine feet in the air, and caught Frisbee discs from his owner Alex Stein for eight uninterrupted minutes between innings. But neither that audience, nor the millions watching the pennant-crucial game between the Los Angeles Dodgers and Cincinnati Reds on television, could have predicted they were witnessing the birth of a canine competition that would soon thrill legions of dog lovers throughout the world. Ashley's national stadium debut was engineered by his owner Alex Stein, then a student at Ohio State. When Hollywood talent scouts failed to return Stein's calls, he took matters into his own hands and smuggled Ashley into Dodger Stadium on the evening of August 4, 1974. Ashley went on to break all records, winning the Canine Frisbee Disc World Championships three times.

Later, Ashley starred in a television commercial, entertained Amy Carter and her friends at the White House, performed at halftime at Super Bowl XII, and was a guest with Stein on such television programs as: "Wide World of Sports," "Good Morning America," "The Tonight Show," and others. He entertained at practically every NFL and Major League Baseball stadium in the United States and Canada, and starred in "Floating Free" -- a film documentary nominated for an Academy Award.


(http://www.coloradodiscdogs.com/images/ashley_whippet.jpg)



OMG!!  What an amazing dog!!!  I would have loved to have seen him in action!!!  Dogs like that have a lot of heart and are pretty special.  I guess his owner knew it and had the chutzpa to show the world.

I'm so glad he did.  I like the fact how the dog had two names and that's what everyone called him.

Did I mention I love whippets?

I hope you're right.  Maybe if the cats stay inside and I play with the dog outside, a sight hound won't have any problems with my cats.  If I had a yard, I'd've adopted or fostered a greyhound by now and had my own whippet.    Saluki dogs are cool too.
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: Fran on July 28, 2007, 01:03:21 am
Saluki dogs are cool too.

Borzois, too... but probably a lot more work.  :)
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: Shasta542 on July 29, 2007, 01:15:09 am
My cat who is an indoor/outdoor cat is 16 years old. She stays in the backyard when she is outside. She has a shelter and food and water out there, and she likes to lie in the sun. When the dogs come out she gives them cat love or slaps them according to her mood. Tonite, unfortunately, when I let the dogs out, she had proudly brought a baby rabbit to the door. I wrestled it away from her---she was guarding it against the dogs and me. I brought him in and he was alive, but he died a little while later. Poor little thing---he was so cute. I guess he ventured into the back yard--or she may have fooled me and took a trip out of the yard. Anyway---that was a bummer. In her younger days, she would bring rats, squirrels, rabbits, birds---full-grown ones--and lay them on the front porch. She was always proud.  :P  I did appreciate her keeping my house mouse free, tho.
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: Shasta542 on July 29, 2007, 01:48:58 am
She has stuffed toys and balls and squeaky toys, but this is one of her favorites. It's an old (empty) pill bottle that she has chewed up and flattened out. She gets it and tosses it, fetches it, gnaws it (loudly), and dares me to try to get it out of her mouth. Cheap toy!! When she was a baby, she loved to play with toilet paper/paper towel rolls.

(http://i183.photobucket.com/albums/x221/Shasta542/NICK012.jpg)
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: Kelda on July 30, 2007, 07:53:29 am
This is from the BBc News website - thought you huys who have posted here would be interested.

Can pets sense illness?
WHO, WHAT, WHY?
The Magazine answers... 


A cat has apparently "predicted" the deaths of 25 residents in a nursing home in the US. It seems fanciful but can pets detect illness or even death?

The residents of Steere House Nursing and Rehabilitation Centre in Rhode Island would be forgiven for getting a little anxious if Oscar was to curl up next to them.
Not generally friendly to patients, this show of affection has been used to warn families that their loved one has not long to go.

Sounds far-fetched? Animal behaviour experts in the US say Oscar is probably smelling a chemical given off by the body.

And Jacqueline Pritchard, an expert in animal behaviour in the UK, agrees the explanation is biochemical, rather than psychic.
"I don't doubt that the cat in this case is sensing death approaching. There's little we really know about it but as the body is shutting down, I would hypothesise that the cat is sensing and smelling the organs shutting down."

But there could also be a more simple explanation for Oscar's "ability", she says.

"We change our behaviour when we know someone is dying, so animals will pick that up."
Dogs with an acute sense of smell and awareness are known to detect cancer and predict epileptic seizures.

A ground-breaking study by Dr John Church, published in 2004, claimed to prove in principle that dogs could detect bladder cancer in urine. Since then a pilot study at a charity in Buckinghamshire has continued the research.

There is also anecdotal evidence of dogs scenting a wide range of cancers such as lung, breast and skin, ahead of conventional diagnosis.

Housebound

A woman in Wiltshire said her Chihuahua detected her breast cancer on three occasions, while a Dalmatian kept smelling a freckle that the owner discovered was a malignant tumour.

The work of dogs in epilepsy is more advanced. The charity Support Dogs has provided 45 seizure alert dogs to epileptics such as Tony Brown-Griffin, 35, from Kent.
Twelve years ago, prior to her getting her first alert dog, she was suffering 12 major seizures a week and countless minor ones, so was housebound and childless. Now she is independent and a mother of two.

Ajay, a golden retriever, licks her left hand 40 minutes before a major seizure, which only happens twice a week now, so she can get herself out of harm's way.


"It's a major stress reduction. I don't have to worry about epilepsy at all unless my dog alerts me. Before I was thinking 'Do I have time to cross the road, will I have a seizure?'"
But neither Tony nor her husband knows exactly how Ajay is doing it, because the slight changes in Tony's behaviour prior to a seizure are imperceptible to them.

"He doesn't get a crystal ball and headscarf and say 'I predict you will have one three weeks on Tuesday' but whether it's a change in blood pressure or body temperature or whether I sweat or smell differently, or a combination of things.

"In the early days it was very difficult to go with the dog because I would feel so well but he was 100% accurate, 100% of the time."

Despite the persuasive evidence of dogs' prowess in these areas, the case of Oscar the cat is still a bit of a mystery, says animal psychologist Roger Mugford. Although they can detect illness, he has never known of pets picking up on impending death, and cats would be unlikely candidates to behave like this if they could.

"The question is what motivates a cat to engage in this behaviour. Dogs being trained to detect cancer are trained with a pay-off of play if they do the right thing and if it's your own dog they have a familiar affectionate relationship and will pick the site of the tumour. But a cat in a nursing home?
"Dogs are very good at picking up on emotional changes and when people are depressed and inactive they are very good at comforting people in these circumstances. Elephants show the same altruistic tendencies, but not cats, they are very much more selfish, solitary creatures."

One theory about how dogs have evolved this capacity is that their wolf ancestors developed an ability to tell when one of the pack was sick.

But it is not just in health that the heightened senses of animals have proved to be more advanced than humans'.

Scientists remarked at how few wild animals died in the Asian tsunami in 2004, because they were able to sense the disaster and move to higher ground.


Add your comments on this story, using the form below.

I had a sick chicken a few months a go (we had eight at the time) and thought it very odd when my pet cat sought out the chicken and curled up next to her - an hour or so later the chicken was dead. The cat had never done this before or since with any of the other chickens.
sue, Hampshire

When I was a child we had a spaniel. When she was a pup she was friendly with a Labrador along the road. As they got older they didn't see one another. Suddenly one day, our spaniel turned up quite out the blue at the home of the Labrador, was given access to the house, sought out the Labrador, sniffed him for a short time and came back home. Two days later the Labrador died. The houses were about a quarter of a mile apart.
Mike, Edinburgh

I have always had at least one cat, and have noticed how they pick up on my mood. If I am upset or ill, my cat will come straight to me to provide comfort. I even observed this with a cat we took in from a rescue shelter, who would not come anywhere near me when I felt well! I think it is more extraordinary for a cat to do this (and they clearly do) despite being independent creatures, whereas a dog is dependant, and it is in their interest to keep their host happy.
Jane, Kent

Cats also show an empathy for people who are suffering a bereavement. When my father died, and my mother came to stay with us, both our cats would not leave her side and even slept on the bed with her, something we don't normally allow, but we could see the comfort she was getting from them.
Helen Waite, Appleton, Abingdon, UK

My family cat, also called Oscar, almost predicted our family dog's death. She had been ill for some time and we decided to have her put down at our house. Oscar and the dog had never been particularly friendly, but in the hours leading to her death, Oscar never left her side and was cuddling her. I don't know if it was psychic or due to him being able to tell biologically, but it was nice for the old dog.
Hilary, Edinburgh

I have known cats to behave in this way. When my mother was dying of cancer her normally aloof British Blue cat spent almost 24 hours a day lying next to her on the bed. More recently, when I was laid up earlier this year with glandular fever my two cats who never normally stay in the house during the day spent three days snuggled up with me on the sofa. I have also owned boxer dogs in the past, both of whom would spend hours cuddled up to whoever in the household was under the weather. There doesn't always need to be a logical explanation for these things - sometimes they just are!
Jane, Preston


Our budgie went into a squawking fit within seconds of our first gerbil dying. Three weeks later it did the same thing when our second gerbil died. Animal instinct needs further attention.
Brian, Slough

Animals may pick up pre-deceasement because of a change in chemicals given off by the person in question. This could be due to the breakdown of enzymatic activity. As to weather forecasting this could be due to the obvious one of high or low pressure. Other than that I am sure there is nothing paranormal involved although the theory is more exciting. People who have had a near death experience often claim to have travelled along a wide tunnel with a bright light and a sensation of peace. This is probably due to a lack of oxygen. All rather mundane but probably the more accurate.
Maurice de Ville, Chesterfield

I worked night shift in a care home and I would take my dog to work with me. One evening after bedding down the residents; myself and the other member of staff, were having a tea break, when my dog started pacing between me and a resident's room. After the second time he came back, we followed him, to the room only to discover the resident had died following a massive heart attack. I am convinced that animals are able to sense death.
Hazel O'Neill, Scotland

I do not agree that cats are very selfish and unfeeling. When I had a miscarriage and was in mourning my cat offered me more comfort than any human. He waited for me to sit down at 11am each day and purred and comforted me when I was crying. He definitely sensed my emotions and helped me recover more quickly.
J. Turner, Torquay Devon UK

For a large part of last year I was having several seizures a week, our dog (who we only got in December '05) was able to pick up on it and would alert my wife by walking beside her and nudging her. If we were at home alone, when I came round after a seizure I would always find him next to me. And he would stay with me until he felt I was okay.
Rick, Toronto, On, Canada

When I was a child living in Canada, we had a Russian wolfhound who never displayed the slightest sign of intelligence! But one day, he tore into the house in terror and hid in the basement, flatly refusing to come out. The weather was clear and fine and we could see and hear nothing unusual to have upset him. Exactly 40 minutes later (to the minute) we experienced a major, grade four, tornado which destroyed a vast majority of the county. Once the storm had passed, he came out of the basement and never entered it again!
Charlotte Cheshire, Telford, England

My cat always sits next to me when I feel unwell. She will stay there for hours, whilst normally she doesn't bother that much. OK - she may detect physical or behavioural changes in me which cause her to do this. Explain this one though. In the 80s, I lived in London and would come home most weekends. When I came in my mother would have a cup of tea waiting for me on the table. How did she know when to make it? Because about 5-10 minutes before I arrived home, my cat would sit in the window and start crying. Every single time. Sense of smell or detection of mood change? Probably not. I like to think it is psychic ability. I can't really think of another explanation.
Gill, Newport Gwent

I think there is an inexplicable and possibly mystic connection between animals and humans. My cat left our house and went to live up the road with an elderly neighbour. He lived there for over two years and in that time he never came home. The neighbour became ill and was taken to hospital. Although we were feeding the cat he never left her house. Then one day about two weeks later he suddenly showed up at house, curled up and went to sleep. About half an hour passed, and we received a phone call telling us our neighbour had died about half an hour ago. I've never been able to explain it but I do believe there are things that are just unexplainable.
Erica Fowler, London

Maybe the cat is going by biochemical signals and IS rewarded, by attention from the staff every time he gets it right? Another possible explanation would be that he is reverting to his wild state. In the wild he couldn't attack something the size of a person but if the person is dying the wild animal which detects that first is first in the queue for eating the body. Don't jackals etc gather long before someone is actually dead? At a less bloodthirsty level he might see people as a threat but very sick people don't have the energy to lash out while still being warm to cuddle up to. I have noticed that wild animals were much less fearful of me when I was ill and came closer. I assume this was because my movements were slower and more predictable. I looked less likely to attack them.
Louise, Edinburgh

Our old tabby, Kinky, climbed into the bed and curled up on my mother's stomach hours before she died. Lifted off, he climbed back up and resumed the same position. Kinky had never been affectionate toward my mother, and I found his behaviour inexplicable until I read the story about Oscar.
Mari, Honolulu, USA

I have heard of stories of cats leaving the home of someone who was dying a day or so before the death and not returning until a couple of days after the death. In fact I heard of one case where a woman knew she was terminally ill and knew it would be imminent as the cat left - and sure enough, the cat was right!
Lisa Perkins, Nottingham

I don't know how animals do this or whether it is just coincidental but I do know that my cat, Odin, woke me up one night with really loud wailing in my ear and pushing his head into my face and he seemed really alarmed. Eventually he calmed down and left me alone. The next morning it turned out there was an earthquake in Birmingham I think it was and scientists said that their detectors had detected it as far away as London. I cannot help but wonder if it was the earthquake he was trying to alert me to.
Andy, Bristol UK

A couple of coincidences, people make a silly superstitious association. Then when the moggy the curls up on their bed - superstition leads to psychosomatic illness in an already weakened person. Self-fulfilling prophecy and all that... Then again, maybe people on the way out just give off more heat) Statistical question - How many people does that cat settle down next to that don't imminently die? At any rate, let's hope someone has been sensible enough to check the cat isn't carrying any pathogens. Whatever, I think the cat should be re-housed. Maybe it's doing contract work for the grim reaper?
Dave Pritchard, Manchester

Story from BBC NEWS:
http://news.bbc.co.uk/go/pr/fr/-/1/hi/magazine/6919063.stm

Published: 2007/07/27 12:06:28 GMT

© BBC MMVII
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: mvansand76 on July 30, 2007, 11:27:08 am


Oh it's great to see other people who love sight hounds, as I wrote earlier in this thread we used to have an Afghan Hound, Muscha, but before I was born, my parents has a blac-white Saluki, called Yoljons. Muscha and Yoljons were best friends, they actually went out on adventures together, coming back to the house all dirty after three hours of wandering around the neighbourhood. They were both lazy as hell too. Once they were back home they would sleep for hours. They even once peed THROUGH the couch while sleeping. When my parents took them to the beach they always just let them run, and they would be gone for long stretches of time, but they would always come back.

Yoljons always jumped up from wherever he was lying when he heard the cookie jar. One day he jumped up, landed on the floor and he was dead, he had suffered a heart attack.

 :'( :'( :'( :'(
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: Fran on August 03, 2007, 12:14:18 pm

Yoljons always jumped up from wherever he was lying when he heard the cookie jar. One day he jumped up, landed on the floor and he was dead, he had suffered a heart attack.

 :'( :'( :'( :'(

Oh, wow.  That's sad.  How old was Yoljons at the time?

I don't know what would be worse:  finding your dog dead or perhaps making the decision to have it put to sleep when it's suffering.  As my dog gets older, I realize I'm going to be facing one of these options eventually, and I know that either one is going to break my heart.  :(
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: Shasta542 on August 07, 2007, 12:49:46 am
Cam is some kind of extreme mix!! People ask me what kind of dog he is and I just tell them that I have no idea. His pregnant mom was dropped off in the country and she found her way to my house--they can always sniff out a sucker. I fed her and made her a "nest" under the deck. She gave birth early one morning and I woke up to baby whining. The first time I went out to check on her, there were 5 fat roly poly puppies. The next time--a couple hours later--there were 11. This was a small dog, but 10 of the puppies were fat and they were all jockeying for an eating position.

One pup lay to the side, scrawny, stiff, and cold. I thought he was dead, but he was still breathing. (Later I described him to friends as a "pupcicle") I brought him in and wrapped him up in a warm heating pad. I kept a close check on him so he wouldn't get tooooo warm. When he'd warmed up, he started whining and moving, so I took him to his mom so he could eat.

He was the runt and as they grew, he was always 1/2 the size of his brothers and sisters. When they reached 8 weeks old, I found homes for the pups. I kept the runt---and that's why I have CAM!!!! He is my buddy-boy who smiles at me and licks me in the ear--the sweetest and gentlest fellow. But very OVER-PROTECTIVE of me, so I have to keep him close. He doesn't allow trespassers. Lol  Sometimes he kisses the cat and sometimes he tries to bite her--not to hurt her, just to assert himself, I guess. He gets in trouble when he tries to bite her, tho.

I think he knows that I saved his life, so he dedicated it to me. I've had to get between him and at least 3 men. And I was kissing one of them goodbye at the gate.  :P

His eyes are beautiful and the markings there make him look like he's wearing eye-liner. He's black and light brown, about 70 pounds, 10 years old, and he did NOT want his picture made. I love the little mutt!!


(http://i183.photobucket.com/albums/x221/Shasta542/MISC.012.jpg)

(http://i183.photobucket.com/albums/x221/Shasta542/CAM001.jpg)

Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: Kelda on August 07, 2007, 03:41:01 am
heheheheh. I like the kissing goodbye story!

I think runts do make very good pets - they seems to be almost always very affectionate and friendly and docile.
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: Shasta542 on August 07, 2007, 09:46:15 am
heheheheh. I like the kissing goodbye story!

I think runts do make very good pets - they seems to be almost always very affectionate and friendly and docile.

 ;D 

Cam sheds 24/7/12/365 --all that--I don't see how he keeps from being bald! He always has very thick fur. And, yes, I brush him. I could brush him for hours and still he would be shedding. Anyone have a homeopathic remedy? (Besides shearing.)  :P   
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: Kelda on August 12, 2007, 03:55:48 pm
fat cat - at xmas o6 and jan 04!
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: Shasta542 on August 12, 2007, 03:58:53 pm
Skimble is very cute! Looks like a contented kitty---got candy and computer--who wouldn't be happy?

*You may have already told this, but---did you get Skimbles' name from "CATS"? There is a cat named Skimbleshanks---I think he is the railroad cat in the show. My favorite dance number is the train one and also the rock and roll---RumTumTugger!  ;D
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: Kelda on August 13, 2007, 03:53:36 am
Skimble is very cute! Looks like a contented kitty---got candy and computer--who wouldn't be happy?

*You may have already told this, but---did you get Skimbles' name from "CATS"? There is a cat named Skimbleshanks---I think he is the railroad cat in the show. My favorite dance number is the train one and also the rock and roll---RumTumTugger!  ;D

Yup, from CATS! Not many people get the reference!  I played the number Skimbleshankas the Railway cat in my school brass band and loved it - so used it as his name - but shortened as I thought I may get wierd looks if I shouted for Skimbleshanks every night!
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: David In Indy on August 13, 2007, 04:33:45 am
;D 

Cam sheds 24/7/12/365 --all that--I don't see how he keeps from being bald! He always has very thick fur. And, yes, I brush him. I could brush him for hours and still he would be shedding. Anyone have a homeopathic remedy? (Besides shearing.)  :P   

I don' have a homeopathic remedy Shasta. My only advice to you is to just keep brushing him like Hell won't have it.

That's what I do with Cody. I brush him and I brush him until the cows come home... and HE STILL SHEDS!! But eventually I get it all out. I have friends with allergies who come to visit and Cody never bothers them. This is not an easy feat to accomplish with a Golden Retriever!  :P

He should stop shedding in a month or two when he starts to develop his winter coat. But he'll still shed. Just not as much.  :P

I know Shasta. It's ridiculous, isn't it?
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: David In Indy on August 13, 2007, 07:09:27 pm
Re Cody's brushings: Shasta I should also point out that I brush Cody 3 times each day; once in the morning before I go to work, once after a return home, and once again before I go to bed. Each of his brushing sessions lasts about 15 or 20 minutes. I found if I do this, I can stay ahead of his shedding, because it never has a chance to really build up. I suppose this may not work for you and others, because some animals despise being brushed. Cody loves it. He gets all doey eyed when I brush him. I brush him in my utility room, and I shake off the rug thoroughly outside after each "session" (I don't know what else to call it). I also have an ionizer in the utility room and it attracts and traps the finer pieces of fur floating around after we finish.

He also gets a weekly bath and I keep him trimmed in the summer which also helps with the shedding.  :D
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: David In Indy on August 13, 2007, 08:35:02 pm
I'm lucky that Charlie doesn't shed at all!  However he recently got all luggy so he had to have a short-back-and-sides ... he's a skinny little runt under all that hair!

Susie (http://smileys.smileycentral.com/cat/11/11_1_201.gif)


Aww! Charlie is such a cute name for a dog. I was thinking about adopting a lab pup and naming him either Charlie, Heyoki (which means little clown in Lakota) or Louie. But I decided against adopting him. One dog and a cat is enough for me right now!  :D

I've seen some pictures of your dog Susie, and he's so cute!  :D
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: Shasta542 on August 13, 2007, 10:47:39 pm
Re Cody's brushings: Shasta I should also point out that I brush Cody 3 times each day; once in the morning before I go to work, once after a return home, and once again before I go to bed. Each of his brushing sessions lasts about 15 or 20 minutes. I found if I do this, I can stay ahead of his shedding, because it never has a chance to really build up. I suppose this may not work for you and others, because some animals despise being brushed. Cody loves it. He gets all doey eyed when I brush him. I brush him in my utility room, and I shake off the rug thoroughly outside after each "session" (I don't know what else to call it). I also have an ionizer in the utility room and it attracts and traps the finer pieces of fur floating around after we finish.

He also gets a weekly bath and I keep him trimmed in the summer which also helps with the shedding.  :D

I brush Cam, but not as much as I should. Cam is like Cody---he loves to be brushed. He will streeeetch his leg out straight so I can get to it, and he doesn't like it when I stop. Of course I have to give my little weener dog some brushing too because she barks until I do---even tho she has very short hair and hardly sheds at all--if any.  She just wants her turn! Weener dogs that I've known are very adamant about certain things!
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: David In Indy on August 13, 2007, 11:40:13 pm
I brush Cam, but not as much as I should. Cam is like Cody---he loves to be brushed. He will streeeetch his leg out straight so I can get to it, and he doesn't like it when I stop. Of course I have to give my little weener dog some brushing too because she barks until I do---even tho she has very short hair and hardly sheds at all--if any.  She just wants her turn! Weener dogs that I've known are very adamant about certain things!

That's cute!

They're just like little children, aren't they? But this is exactly why I decided against the Labrador pup. Cody alone occupies a lot of my time. I spend almost an hour each day just brushing him! That doesn't count the time I spend walking him, playing with him, feeding him, cleaning up after him, etc. Don't get me wrong, I LOVE it, and wouldn't have it any other way. But I don't know if I have enough time for a second dog.

And my cat Oreo demands time from me too. He's a very independent little guy, but he likes attention from me as well. And I brush Oreo too, and he likes it, but I don't brush him nearly as much as I brush Cody. I mostly just cuddle Oreo or bounce a piece of string over his head so he can bat at it. It doesn't take much to keep my cat entertained!  :D
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: Kelda on August 22, 2007, 10:59:40 am
UK dog undergoes first knee swap
 
A bearded collie from Tyneside is to undergo the UK's first canine knee replacement operation.
Grace, from Whitley Bay, struggles to walk because of crippling arthritis which has left her in constant pain.

The seven-year-old has now been referred to a specialist veterinary practice in Solihull, West Midlands.

Her owners hope the procedure, to be carried out at Willows Referral Service on Wednesday, will restore Grace to an active, happy life.

Hip replacement operations have been performed in dogs for many years, but no knee replacements have ever been carried out on dogs in the UK, according to a practice spokesman.


Story from BBC NEWS:
http://news.bbc.co.uk/go/pr/fr/-/1/hi/england/west_midlands/6958004.stm
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: belbbmfan on August 23, 2007, 02:37:52 pm
hey everyone,

Kelda, I hope that Grace's knee will be better soon.

Now, here are our two little kitties...

this is Suzy, 14 years old. She enjoys company, but she's doesn't like being picked up and cuddled.  She was the runt of the litter and she's always been small, but she's a sweetie.

(http://i107.photobucket.com/albums/m312/Belbbmfan/P1010539.jpg)

and this is Ollie, our 3 year old huge tomcat. He likes to cuddle. When you're lying on the couch, reading a book our watching television, changes are he'll jump on you and literally put his arms paws around you and put his head on your shoulder. I know, i know, strange hunh,  ;D We absolutely adore him.
Unfortunately Suzy's very afraid of him, constantly hissing at him and running away. I don't know why, he's such a push over!

(http://i107.photobucket.com/albums/m312/Belbbmfan/P1010537.jpg)

Sorry, my pictures are very good. I should ask Jude for some tips, she has the most awesome cat pictures.
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: David In Indy on August 23, 2007, 03:13:29 pm

this is Suzy, 14 years old. She enjoys company, but she's doesn't like being picked up and cuddled.  She was the runt of the litter and she's always been small, but she's a sweetie.

(http://i107.photobucket.com/albums/m312/Belbbmfan/P1010539.jpg)



Awww! Your cats are so cute! I especially like Suzy. She looks very much like Jess's cat. I love those cats with the rounded eartips. Very cute!  :D

Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: Kelda on August 23, 2007, 05:00:53 pm
kitties - I LOOVVEEE kitties!
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: David In Indy on August 24, 2007, 09:00:41 pm
Our little dog Charlie adores Robby the bunny!  He licks his face and ears all the time.  Robby tolerates Charlie, poor thing!   


(http://i148.photobucket.com/albums/s31/Susiebell_album/Family%20Photos/CharlieRobbie.jpg)

Susie (http://smileys.smileycentral.com/cat/11/11_1_201.gif)



That's a VERY cute picture, Susie!!  :D
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: David In Indy on August 24, 2007, 09:50:42 pm
My dog Cody.....

(http://i77.photobucket.com/albums/j43/Davidindy/Codysmall.jpg)


He's three now. This picture was taken last fall.  :D
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: Shasta542 on August 25, 2007, 08:04:17 am
Our little dog Charlie adores Robby the bunny!  He licks his face and ears all the time.  Robby tolerates Charlie, poor thing!   


(http://i148.photobucket.com/albums/s31/Susiebell_album/Family%20Photos/CharlieRobbie.jpg)

Susie (http://smileys.smileycentral.com/cat/11/11_1_201.gif)



Oh, Charlie----u r soooooo cute. What a good boy! Tell Susie to give you a Scooby Treat!!

He must be such a sweetie, Susie! I'm afraid that my dogs would not treat a bunny so lovingly, some of them being "retrievers" and all. Unless they were raised up with them. Did Robby and Charlie grow up together?


 
My dog Cody.....

(http://i77.photobucket.com/albums/j43/Davidindy/Codysmall.jpg)


He's three now. This picture was taken last fall.  :D

What a beautiful face and eyes---and this sounds weird, but he has a nicely shaped head, too. You know they look at those things in dog shows. Cody looks like he is into affection!! Lotsa kissin'!
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: David In Indy on August 25, 2007, 04:50:28 pm
Thanks Susie and Shasta for your compliments on my dog! Cody thanks you too!  :D

Cody is the sweetest, most affectionate dog I have ever owned. Or met. Everyone remarks about his friendly disposition. He adores people and he loves meeting them too. He likes to make new friends. But be warned... if you ever meet Cody in person, be prepared to get LOTS and LOTS of wet soggy kisses. He loves kissing people! He's very patient too, even with my cat. The cat will walk right up to him and hiss in his face for no reason at all. Or he will smack Cody across the face with his paw when Cody is laying there minding his own business. Cody will just sit there and take it. He does chase the cat sometimes, but the cat loves it.  :D
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: mvansand76 on August 28, 2007, 11:05:51 am

 
What a beautiful face and eyes---and this sounds weird, but he has a nicely shaped head, too. You know they look at those things in dog shows. Cody looks like he is into affection!! Lotsa kissin'!

Isn't he gorgeous? He gets a LOT OF love! You can just see that!  :D
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: Brokeback_Dev on August 28, 2007, 12:12:29 pm
My dog Cody.....

(http://i77.photobucket.com/albums/j43/Davidindy/Codysmall.jpg)


He's three now. This picture was taken last fall.  :D

Cody is beautiful.. I can tell he is well taking care of.  He looks like a wonderful, gentle dog to have as a pet.

Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: Dobie1018 on August 28, 2007, 12:32:46 pm
What a beautiful dog David!  He looks very sweet and gentle.   Dogs are my passion in life.  I've had dogs all my life and love all dogs - every one of them - purebred or mutts.  Currently I have a 5 1/2 year old Doberman Pinscher girl born on October 18, 2001 (hence my resident name - Dobie 1018), a 2 1/2 year old Basset Hound boy, and a 4 year old Basset Hound boy.  All my dogs are registered therapy dogs and we belong to our local therapy dog club.  Members of our group go to nursing homes, schools, rehab centers, hospitals, and we make appearances at special children's events or wherever we're requested.  It's very rewarding to see the happiness and joy my dogs bring to the faces of the handicapped, sick, ill or terminal patients, and the dogs love visiting with people too.  I also compete with my dogs in AKC obedience trials, which is also fun and is a wonderful way of bonding with your dog.  My Dobie has her first obedience title, and is struggling with getting her 2nd title. My dogs spend their weekdays  in my air-conditioned home lounging on the chairs and couches, listening to the TV while I'm at work, and they sleep in bed with me at night.    My dogs are my comfort, my protectors, my companions, my sanity, and my stress relievers.   I could not live without them!!!! 
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: Kelda on August 28, 2007, 05:21:06 pm
lets see some photos!!
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: Dobie1018 on August 29, 2007, 08:47:14 am
How do you get the photos to appear in the message box????
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: Kelda on August 29, 2007, 10:24:51 am
you can attach a photo by clicking on additional options (just under the box where you type) - thats the easiest way, espceially with no upload limits now.

or if you have a photbucket account or a pic of yor dogs online somewhere - you can get this to appear directly in the message by using the insert image button - (next to the youtube one - above the smileys.)

and then you type thewebpage address inbetween the brackets  with [img] written in them that come up

Does that make sense!?!

I might look into see if there is anything like that where I live - I'd love to get involved in something like that.
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: Scott6373 on August 29, 2007, 10:28:08 am
Hey I didn't know I could do this
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: ifyoucantfixit on August 29, 2007, 12:10:21 pm



          I love dogs!!   They are so beautiful, and loving.   Cats are fun too.  My daughter has a handicapped Chinchilla, and She also has a beautiful dog.  Half Shar pai and half boxer..Is a dead ringer for Scooby doo.  She has a temperament to match.  Big dog but a chicken...
          We have a foundling, he is a purebred Norwich Terrier.  He and my husband are like glued together at the hip..He is an older dog of indeterminate age,, around 11 we think. He has glaucoma, in one eye and has to be medicated every day.
           We also adopted, or should say we were adopted by a three legged cat.  He is a beautiful siamese and tabby cross breed...
            I guess that makes us the home of a bunch of foundlings.  Only one of which was actually bought and brought home...the boxer mix Nellie....
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: Penthesilea on August 29, 2007, 04:42:31 pm
My cat Bonnie:

(http://i101.photobucket.com/albums/m47/Penthesilea06/Bonnie5.jpg)

(http://i101.photobucket.com/albums/m47/Penthesilea06/Bonnie2.jpg)

She was an example of a cat choosing its owner, not vice versa. She was originally adopted from an animal shelter by a family in our neighbourhood. But she chose to be our cat. One day she sat at the entrance of the house, I crawled her and spoke with her and when my husband opened the door she went in and upstairs with us like she had never done anything else. At first she came for visits every few days, but it didn't take long and she came every day, stayed longer and longer, we began to buy cat-food and finally I bought a cat litter pan so she could stay overnight or when we left the house.
Around that time, I finally came to know who's cat she was. I phoned her owners, the woman came over to have a look at her, but wasn't even sure if it was her cat  :o!.
Jeez, I would have easily recognized her among 100 black cats.

Long story short, it didn't take long and she was our cat, although her former owners still had the papers for her and therefore were the legal owners. Then one day she had a bad accident, she was hit by a car and was severely injured. She had to undergo surgery and needed much care for weeks. During that time her former owners finally gave me the papers for her, so she was legally ours.

We had her for nine wonderful years. She had the loudest purr I ever heard from a cat and she purred often. It was like she had a little motor build in  :laugh:
She died of cancer when she was about eleven years old.

Oh, and she wasn't a she, but a he. It was a tomcat, but we gave her a female name and always referred to her as she.
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: Kelda on August 29, 2007, 04:47:24 pm
awww.. cute little cat was Bonnie - and another Skimble lookalike! me you and Fabieen have/had identical looking balck cats!
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: David In Indy on August 29, 2007, 05:03:39 pm
Awww! She (he) was BEAUTIFUL Chrissi!!! I love black cats!  :D
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: Kelda on August 30, 2007, 05:46:13 am
well Skimble brought us a present this morning.

I could hea rhim playing downstairs and then he was upstairs in our room. Jumped on our bed. then he jumped down again and was playing on the floor - with a little robin that he was gleefully parading around with in his mouth - not a mark on the thing but nearly dead... it only moved when he pawed at it.

I picked Skimble up and told Callum to remove the bird while I had hold of him. he was purr purr purring away - very happy fat cat this morning - but the poor wee birdie! And a robin too - soooo cute - if it had been a mongral bird I weouldn't have minded so much!
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: David In Indy on August 30, 2007, 02:50:10 pm
well Skimble brought us a present this morning.

I could hea rhim playing downstairs and then he was upstairs in our room. Jumped on our bed. then he jumped down again and was playing on the floor - with a little robin that he was gleefully parading around with in his mouth - not a mark on the thing but nearly dead... it only moved when he pawed at it.

I picked Skimble up and told Callum to remove the bird while I had hold of him. he was purr purr purring away - very happy fat cat this morning - but the poor wee birdie! And a robin too - soooo cute - if it had been a mongral bird I weouldn't have minded so much!

 :laugh:  :laugh:

Awww. Poor little bird.

I'm sure my cat would do the exact same thing if I let him outside. But he's an indoor cat. He never goes outside. But last winter when I had my mouse problem, he would sometimes catch a mouse and then run upstairs to my bedroom and drop the mouse on my pillow.  :P

And just like Skimble, he will be purring very loudly when he does it. He's very proud of himself.

We can't get angry though when our cats do things like this. Hunting is in their nature. But GAWD it's disgusting when it happens!  :P

Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: David In Indy on August 30, 2007, 03:55:15 pm
Cody has been packing little creatures inside my house lately. He is most fascinated with insects... BIG insects. He will catch them live inside his mouth, and then once he's indoors he will walk up to me and "yawn", releasing the flying critters into the room. He loves cicadas, and he's probably packed 2 or 3 dozen of them into my house since summer started.

He puked up a dead fish on my bedspread a couple of months ago. I can't figure out how he got a hold of it though. There aren't any fish in my back yard. Someone must have thrown it over the fence.
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: Kelda on August 30, 2007, 05:18:10 pm
Lol!!! David!!! Codys antics are funny!

Skimble was also chasing a spider this evening.. he's also eaten a bumble bee and a butterfly. 

Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: Shasta542 on August 30, 2007, 08:04:18 pm
:laugh:  :laugh:

Awww. Poor little bird.

I'm sure my cat would do the exact same thing if I let him outside. But he's an indoor cat. He never goes outside. But last winter when I had my mouse problem, he would sometimes catch a mouse and then run upstairs to my bedroom and drop the mouse on my pillow.  :P

And just like Skimble, he will be purring very loudly when he does it. He's very proud of himself.

We can't get angry though when our cats do things like this. Hunting is in their nature. But GAWD it's disgusting when it happens!   :P



When I would have a mouse (usually in the winter) the cat would eat the half with the head and leave the body half for me to "find" so that I could be proud of her. YES!!! Very disgusting!!
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: Dobie1018 on August 30, 2007, 11:00:13 pm
I could not figure how to put pictures in the message box, so I put some of my pets' pictures in my photobucket album, here:

 http://s8.photobucket.com/albums/a14/Dobie1018/Pet%20pictures/ (http://s8.photobucket.com/albums/a14/Dobie1018/Pet%20pictures/)

I hope this works!
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: David In Indy on August 30, 2007, 11:15:16 pm
Cute Pictures!!!!  :D

Dobie, I always use the 4th option under the picture on photobucket; the one that says IMG Code. If you copy the code from the box and paste it into your BetterMost message, it should appear without any problems!

Here's one of your pictures...

(http://i8.photobucket.com/albums/a14/Dobie1018/Pet%20pictures/000_0397.jpg)

I hope that helps!  :D
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: Fran on August 30, 2007, 11:23:57 pm
Dobie, your dogs are absolutely beautiful!

David, thanks for taking the time to post one of the photos in this thread.

Now I'm heading over to Photobucket to see the rest of them....
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: Dobie1018 on August 31, 2007, 08:39:14 am
Oh David, thank you so much for putting my "kids" pictures up here!  I tried last night for a long time to get them in the message box, but couldn't!  I appreciate it!  Their names are, from left to right:  Demi, Crusher and Murphy.  All certified therapy dogs, and the loves of my life! 
Thanks for your kind comments Fran!  Aren't dogs wonderful?  What would we do without them?
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: David In Indy on August 31, 2007, 05:44:04 pm
Oh David, thank you so much for putting my "kids" pictures up here!  I tried last night for a long time to get them in the message box, but couldn't!  I appreciate it!  Their names are, from left to right:  Demi, Crusher and Murphy.  All certified therapy dogs, and the loves of my life! 
Thanks for your kind comments Fran!  Aren't dogs wonderful?  What would we do without them?

You're very welcome!  :D

Did I explain it to you clearly? Sometimes I'm not very good at explaining things. If you have any further questions, please send me a pm and I'll try to help you with your pictures in any way I can. I only posted that picture as an example, to show you that your pictures are already properly set up in your photobucket album. The other three pictures are all ready to be posted here too! Just copy the IMG Code and paste it in here. Once you've done that, I can go back and delete the picture I posted in my message. Just let me know if you want me to do that, okay?

Those are such cute pictures! You have some beautiful animals Dobie!!  :D
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: Dobie1018 on August 31, 2007, 10:45:54 pm
Thanks David.  I'll try it to see if it works for me.  Do you know if the pictures can be made to appear smaller than the size that appears in your message?  Then I could post more than one of them here and not take up a bunch of space. 
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: Fran on August 31, 2007, 11:12:09 pm
Do you know if the pictures can be made to appear smaller than the size that appears in your message?  

Dobie, you can play around with the height and the width measurements.  It's easy.

I'll use your photo that was posted by David as an example. 

(http://i8.photobucket.com/albums/a14/Dobie1018/Pet%20pictures/000_0397.jpg)

In the first IMG bracket, add IMG width=300, and the same photo will look like this:

(http://i8.photobucket.com/albums/a14/Dobie1018/Pet%20pictures/000_0397.jpg)

If you make it IMG width=400, it will look like this:

(http://i8.photobucket.com/albums/a14/Dobie1018/Pet%20pictures/000_0397.jpg)

If you make it IMG width=500, it will look like this:

(http://i8.photobucket.com/albums/a14/Dobie1018/Pet%20pictures/000_0397.jpg)

As I said, you can change the width or the height to get a whole range of different sizes.

It might be easier for you to understand this if you click on "quote" in the upper right-hand corner of this post, so you can see the IMG coding I'm talking about.

BTW, larger photos can be nice, too.  The size David posted looks great!

Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: notBastet on September 01, 2007, 05:19:51 pm

I'm sure my cat would do the exact same thing if I let him outside. But he's an indoor cat. He never goes outside. But last winter when I had my mouse problem, he would sometimes catch a mouse and then run upstairs to my bedroom and drop the mouse on my pillow.  :P


I have three cats that stay indoors.  I also have two dogs.

But, for whatever reason - birds have chosen to fly in to my house - twice!  One of the cats cornered a bird once - I thought it was dead - but no flew up in my face when I went near.  I managed to get the cats out of the room and out the bird flew.  The second time another bird somehow got stuck in the basement (long story) - I managed to get the bird out of the house quickly and undetected by the cats.

I have never had mouse problems, but once the cat (same one as above) cornered a frog in the house.  Same as the bird above, I thought the frog was dead, but no.  (Man did I scream when it jumped!)  The cat must be the 'lookout' cat - at least she makes funny noises when she catches things, so I know immediately to come look and see what's going on....
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: notBastet on September 01, 2007, 05:29:12 pm
Just wanted to share this...  in case there are any feral cat lovers out there...

Thoughts of a Feral

I sit beneath the bushes as she fills my dish each day,
I only venture out to eat when she has gone away,
I know it will upset her when I turn away and hide,
As every day she tries her best to get me by her side.
I wish that I could let her know that I don't want to run,
And hope that she will understand it's nothing that SHE'S done.
I'd like to have her stroke me and pat my weary head,
But fear will overcome and I'll run and hide instead.
For all the kindly people who feed the strays each day,
I pray the Lord will care for them as they have cared for me.

-Annette Easdon


Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: David In Indy on September 01, 2007, 11:15:43 pm
I was shocked and appalled when I saw this little video clip. I posted it on my blog, but because we love our animals, I felt it needed to be posted here as well.

*cold chill*

For those of us with cats and pull cords on our ceiling fans, it might do us well if we trimmed the cords (or removed them altogether), otherwise something like this might happen....

[youtube=425,350]http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SFtU_xta5qg[/youtube]

 :'( :'( :'(
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: David In Indy on September 02, 2007, 12:55:51 am
I just about died laughing when I saw this!

 :laugh: :laugh: :laugh:

My cat Oreo does the exact same thing. But he only does it in the upstairs bathroom for some reason. I don't know who taught him how to flush.  ???

[youtube=425,350]http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=F8Zc-jsKppE[/youtube]
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: Dobie1018 on September 02, 2007, 09:45:19 pm
I have seen that video with the cat and the ceiling fan quite a while ago and was also appalled.  There is something wrong with someone passing this around as a funny video.  There is nothing funny about it.  I have also seen the cat flushing the toilet video.  Now that is funny!   I have two 12 year old cats and neither one of them has ever shown the least bit of interest in toilets being flushed.  Curious creatures, cats are. 
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: David In Indy on September 02, 2007, 10:06:30 pm
Susie, that video is really CUTE!! "I love mama!!" Awww! It sounded like he was really saying it too!! Cute!!!


I have seen that video with the cat and the ceiling fan quite a while ago and was also appalled.  There is something wrong with someone passing this around as a funny video.  There is nothing funny about it.  I have also seen the cat flushing the toilet video.  Now that is funny!   I have two 12 year old cats and neither one of them has ever shown the least bit of interest in toilets being flushed.  Curious creatures, cats are. 

Hi Dobie!!

I posted that video as a warning to cat owners out there to be careful. Cats are very curious animals, and they would likey take a swipe at a swinging pull cord hangning from a ceiling fan, with results we just saw in that video. Animals are like little children, and we can't be too careful, can we?

Yes, that video is shocking, disturbing and sad. It's even sadder that some people find humor in it. NOTHING FUNNY ABOUT IT! If that fan had released the cat just 1/100 of a second later, the cat would have gone through the living room window! I've been wondering if the cat is okay after hitting the wall as hard as he did. Or if his arm was jerked out of its socket as it was being hurled around violently by the fan? Poor cat!  :'(
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: Kelda on September 03, 2007, 03:56:00 am
David - given that its an actual advert for Nokia I would safely assume its fake - they would have been totally critisised if it had been real.

Not that a cat coudn't catch the cord and get hurled - but hopefully the cord would break before the cat could get up much momentum. Hopefully!? ???
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: Shasta542 on September 04, 2007, 11:40:59 pm
Here's my big, beautiful, sweetie (Scout)--not all that excited to have her picture made. She might like it better if I'd offer some hamburger in exchange for a happy face.  ;D

To put things in perspective--her tongue is about the size of the Yorkie.
 :P

(http://i183.photobucket.com/albums/x221/Shasta542/SCOUT.jpg)

And, hey---she can talk!
She says -- roof and wolf and mmmmm. LOL. But she does sit and shake hands and speak and come and heel and --- well, she "sort of" stays!!   :)  She takes all kinds of other directions, too. Such a good girl.
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: David In Indy on September 05, 2007, 12:59:08 am
Here's my big, beautiful, sweetie (Scout)--not all that excited to have her picture made. She might like it better if I'd offer some hamburger in exchange for a happy face.  ;D

To put things in perspective--her tongue is about the size of the Yorkie.
 :P

(http://i183.photobucket.com/albums/x221/Shasta542/SCOUT.jpg)

And, hey---she can talk!
She says -- roof and wolf and mmmmm. LOL. But she does sit and shake hands and speak and come and heel and --- well, she "sort of" stays!!   :)  She takes all kinds of other directions, too. Such a good girl.



Awww! She's beautiful Shasta!! What a CUTE dog! Look at her face! She looks so happy!  :D

I can tell she has a very good home with lots of love and cuddles!
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: Dobie1018 on September 08, 2007, 08:32:51 pm
What a beautiful girl you have, Shasta!  She looks like she just got back from a long walk or run, or maybe a ball chasing session?  She has beautiful coat and teeth and looks like a very happy girl! 
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: Shasta542 on September 08, 2007, 08:55:13 pm
(http://i183.photobucket.com/albums/x221/Shasta542/THANKS1.jpg)

Thank you, David, Susie, and Dobie. She and I are very close. We've been through a lot together, and I love her immensely. I raised her and my little Yorkie together from 7 weeks old--the Yorkie is 2 months older tho. Scout knows what I tell her. I never really trained her so much, she has just always done what I ask her.

She has always loved to play with her basketball, football, and tennis ball, but has slowed down a little, Dobie. I am thinking that she needs arthritis therapy somehow. She takes a supplement for her joints.

Anyway, good news. One of my little rescue dogs was placed this week. I took her to meet a family (whom I've known for years) with 2 happy playful boys. They have bought her a new pink collar and a bed that is shaped like a couch. The older boy is taking her for "show and tell" next week. She will love that--very happy around kids.

She lives in the house and the boys fight over who is going to feed her. I am thrilled that she has her own special family. I took good care of her, but I am not at home enough to give adequate attention to such an energetic pooch---this family has a stay-at-home mom who lets her sit on the couch with her and rubs her belly -- at her beck and call!! YAY!!
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: Dobie1018 on September 08, 2007, 09:15:46 pm
Well, it sounds like Scout is a very lucky dog with you as her doting owner!  I wish all dogs were as well taken care of as yours and mine are.  It's wonderful that you are able to do rescue for the poor homeless dogs.  I am very happy that you found a home for that one rescue you had.  It sounds like a great home and I hope it works out and the dog has a forever home now!
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: Shasta542 on September 08, 2007, 09:20:44 pm
Thanks, Susie and Dobie!

I have several dogs who were strays or unwanted pets. Most of them I will keep because I've had them so long that they are MIINE or I am THEIRS. lol. And they have their little quirks and habits that I am already accustomed to.  :P A couple of them are old now--11 or 12. They are quite content to live with me and I don't know if they'd adapt to a new life.

But I look for homes for some of them and tell the people that I will take them back if they don't work out.

I have one dog who has been to 2 different homes. One---the little girl loved her, but the grandmother who lived in said that the dog shed too much. (Whatever) And the other one--the teen aged girl took really good care of her--she brought her over in her car to visit and kept her immaculately clean, but her mom made her bring her back because the mom suddenly developed an allergy. (???)

Anyway--this one that I just placed loves children and I have no children. She will be ecstatic there. I keep in contact and have checked on her several times this week. This is her first time to be placed. I picked her up after she'd been at my workplace with no collar on for several days in the winter. I put an ad in the local paper and no one answered it. I had her spayed and got all her shots. She's a healthy and active little mutt!

I also got my cat from the humane society. She is 16 now--kinda feeble, but still spunky.
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: Shasta542 on September 08, 2007, 09:36:26 pm
(http://i183.photobucket.com/albums/x221/Shasta542/HUGS3.gif) , friends!!

Thanks, that's sweet, Susie. Most Brokies have good hearts!! I love Brokies.
Especially Brokies who love kids and animals!!
;D
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: notBastet on September 09, 2007, 10:12:04 am
I just found my first dead mouse courtesy of my cats...

in my living room, this morning, sort of shrivelled up...

 :(

I put a box over it until I can figure out how to umm, get rid of it, with the least amount of screaming and grossness as possible...

 >:(
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: Shasta542 on September 09, 2007, 10:50:12 am
Get a huge wad of paper towels. Put a plastic bag right beside the corpse. Pick it up with the paper towels and put it in the plastic bag. Tie the top tightly twice!! Speaking from experience here! ICKY!!   :o
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: notBastet on September 09, 2007, 11:02:17 am
Get a huge wad of paper towels. Put a plastic bag right beside the corpse. Pick it up with the paper towels and put it in the plastic bag. Tie the top tightly twice!! Speaking from experience here! ICKY!!   :o

Yes - that is pretty much what I did!
Thanks!!
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: Brown Eyes on September 10, 2007, 11:43:06 pm
Eeeeww!! I can sympathize about the mouse.  I once lived in an apartment building that had a bit of a mouse problem during my last few months of occupancy.  It was awful.
 :P :-X

Luckily, I was able to move away within a few months of the time the infestation became really noticeable (and this was before I had my cat).  Even the exterminator really didn't know what to do about the situation (it was really clear that that was the case).


...

Anyway, I decided to pop in here and ask some pet care advice.  This is of course cat related since my only pet is Vivien the cat.  I'm wondering if other cat owners might have tips on dental care for cats.  The cat I grew up with, Polly, ended up having horrible dental problems when she was an older cat.  She lived a wonderful, pampered, long cat-life in general... but by the time she was 17 her teeth were awful and many of her trips to the vet had to do with dental care when she was old.  So, with Vivien (she's only 2 years old still), I want to try to take better care of her teeth so she won't end up with the same dilemma when she's old.

I bought a book on cat care that attempts to describe how to brush a cat's teeth... and I went to Petco and bought Vivien cat toothpaste (for $8 a tube!!!) and the most adorable little cat toothbrush you've ever seen.  But, I simply can't get her to submit to a toothbrushing.  I've had the supplies for months and months and I've read my book of instructions... and Vivien will have none of it.  I feel like the ordeal is too traumatic for her for me to push her too hard on the issue.

So, I'm wondering if other cat owners and lovers might have cat dental care tips?

thanks!
Amanda and Vivien

<img src="http://www.divshare.com/img/midsize/1935497-552.jpg" border="0" /> (http://www.divshare.com/download/1935497-552)

Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: notBastet on September 11, 2007, 12:01:36 am
There are some 'teeth-healthy' chew treats out there.  One prescription kind is called C.E.T. chews.  Kibble is also better than canned food in terms of dental health.  If your cat won't let you brush, regular dentals may help - but it's important to make sure your veterinarian does a true dental (under anesthesia), because just scraping off the tartar with a fingernail doesn't count.

I think there is some genetic variation in terms of whether or not cats will have 'bad teeth.'  My adult female cat Pepper is almost 8.  She has absolutely beautiful teeth, and I have only tried to brush her teeth about three times in her entire life, AND she has never had a dental.  She is meal-fed dry food and only gets treats on occasion.

What part of the brushing is stressful for your cat?  Is it you holding?  Lifting up her lip?  Using the brush device?  If brushing her teeth is truly a task you want to master, I would start with some desensitization.  E.g. if it's restraint that gets her stressed, practice just doing restraint for many many days (with no teeth brushing) until she is calm for that, then move on to touching her lip, etc...  (I'll confess I've been trying this same strategy with trimming my dogs' nails for years, and it hasn't exactly been successful - I am still only able to trim one or two nails at a time before they wig out.)

Hope that helps!
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: Brown Eyes on September 11, 2007, 12:12:11 am


Thanks!  I give Vivien "Greenies" dental treats, which she seems to really like.  And, she eats a healthy amount of dry food.  But, I do give her a small can of wet food at night and in the morning.  Often she'll bypass the wet food for the dry food though... which I've always found fascinating in terms of her own little personal kitty taste.

I think the worst part for her with brushing is that she really dislikes me touching her mouth or the suggestion that I'll hold her lips back.  The good news is that she seems to like the taste of the cat toothpaste.  I can get her to lick that a little bit.  The cat book said to get her to like the toothpaste, which seems to have worked in this case.  So, it's definitely the restraint that bugs her.  Maybe I'll gently try to play with her a bit to see if she'll gradually, over some time let me touch her mouth some more.
 ;D
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: Kelda on September 12, 2007, 05:08:46 am
Well, I can officially tell you that while President Bush may favour doggies, in the UK, the ones in command like MOGGIES!

No 10 gets new feline first lady
Sketch
By Nick Assinder
Political correspondent, BBC News website 

(http://newsimg.bbc.co.uk/media/images/44111000/jpg/_44111022_sybillong203pa.jpg)
Sybil the cat exploring Downing Street

The last occupant of 10 Downing Street became an embarrassing irritant after a decade and was finally put out to grass to spend their remaining years in obscurity.

Now there is a new, Scottish, face at the head of the Cabinet table who is loved by everyone and who has the run of the place.


It must be one of the most privileged, and soon-to-be best known cats in British public life.
Sybil - as in Basil and Sybil Fawlty - the black and white moggie is much loved in the home of the current Chancellor of the Exchequer, Alistair Darling.

And that home is now the flat above the heart of Britain's government - 10 Downing Street - where the Darlings, including Sybil, have moved to from north of the border.


Prime minister Gordon Brown's official spokesman confirmed a new cat was in residence, adding: "The prime minister and Sarah do not have a problem with it. I am sure the cat will appear at some point."

You bet it will - the media's picture desks are already demanding a photocall with the celebrity feline.

Asked if the moggie was being given free reign in the building, the spokesman pointed out cats were not the easiest of animals to deny access to.

However, Sybil is unlikely to face the same fate as her predecessor, Humphrey, who had stalked the corridors of power for years after wandering in during Margaret Thatcher's reign in 1989.

He was perfectly at home snoozing on the prime minister's chair at the Cabinet table and chasing mice, when he could work up the enthusiasm, but was moved out six months after Labour's 1997 general election win.

Insurance policy

There were all sorts of dark rumours about Cherie Blair's role in the move and she was forced to deny her dislike for the animal was to blame.


Eventually, almost a decade later, Humphrey - named after the Whitehall mandarin Sir Humphrey from the TV series "Yes, Prime Minister" - passed peacefully away at the home of a Cabinet Office worker who had taken him in.

Official questions were asked in the House of Commons about Humphrey's absence and health after his departure from Downing Street in 1997.

The media were later invited to a South London property, where Humphrey was photographed, hostage-style, with copies of the day's newspapers.

If I were Sybil, I would do the photo-call as soon as possible - once you've made it to the front pages no occupant of No 10 would want anything to happen which might alienate the cat vote.


Story from BBC NEWS:
http://news.bbc.co.uk/go/pr/fr/-/1/hi/uk_politics/6989055.stm

Published: 2007/09/11 11:48:37 GMT

© BBC MMVII
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: Shasta542 on September 12, 2007, 05:19:50 am
Most of our presidents have had dogs---the Clintons had a dog and a cat, tho. But maybe at different times.

Sybil is very pretty and healthy-looking. Is "Moggie" another word for cat, or is it a certain type of cat? I have never heard it til now.
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: Kelda on September 12, 2007, 06:00:55 am
Most of our presidents have had dogs---the Clintons had a dog and a cat, tho. But maybe at different times.

Sybil is very pretty and healthy-looking. Is "Moggie" another word for cat, or is it a certain type of cat? I have never heard it til now.


Yup moggie is another word for  a cat - another british odditity!!
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: Rogue on September 18, 2007, 03:45:46 pm
well i have 2 dogs, Brie a female pit-lab mix black and white she's sweet and smart but has her issues but what dog doesn't right she's real attached to me but a good dog all the same.  then theres Spike a shepherd/chow/husky mix attached to my hip he is, he chose me about 5 years ago and has just stuck around.  he is seven but you couldn't tell by looking at him, he's as stubborn as a mule and very set in his was.  there's munchkin or munchy for short my cat she is a princess or so she thinks won't drink any water that has sat for longer than 10 minutes and loves the outdoors.  Jake and Johnny are my two ratties Jake is a little sweetheart and loves to give kisses, can't really tell you much about Johnny i just got him on saturday but he's starting to adjust to his new home.  saved both of them from being snake food.  then i have three betas and two goldfish.  quite the meagerie.
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: Shasta542 on September 27, 2007, 08:58:55 pm

RIPLEY 1990-2007

(http://i183.photobucket.com/albums/x221/Shasta542/CopyofCopyofIMG24.jpg)

My good, smart kitty, Ripley, died last night. R.I.P. Ripster! I love you and I'll see you at the bridge.

Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: Brown Eyes on September 27, 2007, 11:06:09 pm
Oh Shasta.  :(  I'm so sorry to hear about Ripley.   :'( :'( :'(  I'm sending you all my sympathy Bud.  It's so hard to lose a beloved friend like Ripley.
Hope you're doing OK.




<img src="http://www.divshare.com/img/2136526-614.jpg" border="0" /> (http://www.divshare.com/download/2136526-614)




Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: Brown Eyes on September 27, 2007, 11:28:32 pm

On a lighter note...


Most of our presidents have had dogs---the Clintons had a dog and a cat, tho. But maybe at different times.


<img src="http://www.divshare.com/img/2136374-c11.jpg" border="0" /> (http://www.divshare.com/download/2136374-c11)

<img src="http://www.divshare.com/img/2136375-e91.jpg" border="0" /> (http://www.divshare.com/download/2136375-e91)

HOORAY for SOCKS the first-cat!!  What a cutie.   Black cats, tuxedo cats and calico cats are my favorite kinds of cats (my current cat is a black cat and the cat I grew up with was calico... so someday my goal is to get a tuxedo cat too  ;D)

I wonder if the Clintons still have Socks.  Maybe Socks will get to be first-cat again if Hillary is elected! :)

Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: Shasta542 on September 28, 2007, 07:23:59 am
Thanks Amanda---it helps to share a sorrow. I'm good.

Ripley was getting very feeble, but she was up and around--eating and drinking--until the day she died. She just kinda wore out. She was lying under a tree in the backyard where she always stayed if she wasn't in the house.

I got her at the humane society in Heber Springs, AR, when she was just a baby, and she had a great long life.  I expect to see her again when I wear out.
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: Shasta542 on September 28, 2007, 07:25:56 am
Socks is so cute! That's a cute picture of the president, too. I've met him, you know!   :)
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: Kelda on September 28, 2007, 08:33:50 am
Oh Shasta,  :'(

I'm so sorry to hear that.  :-* :-* :-*
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: David In Indy on September 28, 2007, 08:13:15 pm
Thanks Amanda---it helps to share a sorrow. I'm good.

Ripley was getting very feeble, but she was up and around--eating and drinking--until the day she died. She just kinda wore out. She was lying under a tree in the backyard where she always stayed if she wasn't in the house.

I got her at the humane society in Heber Springs, AR, when she was just a baby, and she had a great long life.  I expect to see her again when I wear out.


Shasta, I am sooooo sorry to hear about Ripley!  :'(  :'(

Maybe in a few months, after you have had a little time to grieve, you could bring another kitten into your life. You may not feel like it now, but perhaps in a few months it will seem like a good idea to you. And there are so many homeless animals at the shelter looking for a good home and a loving owner.  :)
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: David In Indy on September 29, 2007, 01:11:26 am
LOL This is a little OT, but look what I just found.....

(http://i93.photobucket.com/albums/l43/waverunr/20f6ec6d.jpg)


(http://i47.photobucket.com/albums/f189/kgree23/Walter20the20Farting20Dog1.jpg)


This isn't really a children's book is it?  ???

Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: David In Indy on September 29, 2007, 01:25:12 am
MY GOD!!! It's for real!  :laugh:

 >:( >:(

I found those pictures on Photobucket and I thought maybe it was a joke, but it isn't a joke. Here's a couple of reviews from Amazon.com about Walter The Farting Dog....

Amazon.com
We hold this truth to be self-evident: farting makes kids laugh. Walter, an apologetic-looking dog adopted from the pound, passes gas morning, noon, and night, no matter what he eats, whether it's a 25-pound bag of low-fart dog biscuits, cat food, or fried chicken. On the bright side, "If Uncle Irv let one slip, he just went and stood near Walter." When Father reaches the limit of his patience with Walter's flatulence, he decides the pooch is once again pound-bound, despite Betty and Billy's pleading. Poor Walter knows his days are numbered and "He resolved to hold in his farts forever." That very night, two burglars break into Walter's family's house, and (you can see where this is going) Walter gasses the burglars with a "hideous cloud" that forces them to drop their loot and run into the clutches of the police officers, "choking and gasping for air." The next morning Father and Mother discover Walter has saved the day--or at least their silverware and VCR. "And so the family learned to live with Walter, the hero dog. And that is the end of our tail." (Or is it? Fans will be pleased to discover the next book Walter the Farting Dog: Trouble at the Yard Sale.) Audrey Colman's highly stylized illustrations, imbued with a surreal, Monty Pythonesque collage look, are as absurdly comical as this silly story that is purely powered by natural gas. (Ages 5 to 8) --Karin Snelson

From Publishers Weekly
Here's a companion to Taro Gomi's Everyone Poops, albeit with less educational value. Walter, a fat gray dog with an apologetic look on his face, comes home from the pound with two children. He has incurable gas, and his family decides to take him back. The night before he is to go, Walter sadly devours "the 25-pound bag of low-fart dog biscuits the vet had prescribed for him, which had made him fart more.... A gigantic gas bubble began to build inside him." Wouldn't you know, two burglars break in, and Walter's liability becomes his asset. Predictable stuff, but Kotzwinkle (Trouble in Bugland) and education writer Murray know their audience. Their simple strategy just keep saying "fart" should have children rolling in the aisles during read-aloud. Newcomer Colman likewise fixates on one visual gag, Walter with steam blasting out his backside. Unlike Babette Cole, whose Dr. Dog takes a mock-scientific approach to digestion, Colman specializes in reaction shots; in her surreal collages of photos and patterns, people hold their noses and a cat glances at the culprit. Yes, this lowbrow endeavor could be a crowd-pleaser but, like its topic, its disruptive effects will tend to linger. Ages 4-8.



Apparently there's even a third book called "Walter The Farting Dog Takes A Cruise".

Have any of you read these Farting Dog books?  :-\

Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: Shasta542 on September 29, 2007, 07:42:33 am
Shasta, I am sooooo sorry to hear about Ripley!  :'(  :'(

Maybe in a few months, after you have had a little time to grieve, you could bring another kitten into your life. You may not feel like it now, but perhaps in a few months it will seem like a good idea to you. And there are so many homeless animals at the shelter looking for a good home and a loving owner.  :)
Ah Shasta honey, I'm so sorry to hear your sad news.  She was a beautiful moggy, I expect she's leaping around in moggy heaven right now chasing the birds!!!

Love Susie  :)
Oh Shasta,  :'(

I'm so sorry to hear that.  :-* :-* :-*

Thanks, ya'll. I know you guys understand because you are animal lovers too. I notified my ex about Ripley because we had her before we divorced. When he wrote me back, he told me that she was 17, not 16.  Well, I knew I was close. Bless her heart--she was a dandy little calico. The dogs are like---where is our BOSS??
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: Kelda on September 29, 2007, 09:31:47 am
Yes, animals go through grief just as much as humans. How are you today?
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: Shasta542 on September 29, 2007, 09:47:39 am
Yes, animals go through grief just as much as humans. How are you today?

I'm doing well. Thanks Kelda. Some time this weekend I will gather up Ripley's bowls things and put them away. I will not get another cat for awhile. I'm not at home enough to give a baby enough attention right now. Maybe I will get one come summertime, tho. I won't get one--I will get two. I've tried to have 2 together so each will have a companion. Ripley's companion was Dixie who died a few years ago--she was about 15. Anyway. If I get one kitten--I'll get two. Baby kittens are so much fun to watch.  ;)

Did ya'll know at one time when I was a kid on the farm (and my grandfolks never had the cats fixed or let any animals in the house) I had 3 cats and 14 kittens---all named and all fed and played with in the corn crib of the barn. And I never got ring worms or catscratch fever or any allergies that some kids get from animals. 17 cats---that's too many. I get mine spayed/neutered now.

Kelda--I've been on your blog looking at all the Crete pictures. How beautiful---they are going to make everyone want to go visit!
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: Kelda on September 29, 2007, 10:45:09 am
Yeah - it was definitely a good move for me to get 2 kitties - they amuse each other. I would always buy kittens in 2's from now on.

Glad you are doing okay.

yes - I have got some good pics from Crete even if I do say so myself - thankyou!
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: Shasta542 on October 20, 2007, 03:33:34 pm
Nicki in her cousin's pool.



(http://i183.photobucket.com/albums/x221/Shasta542/Copyof9-22-2006-21.jpg)
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: Kelda on October 21, 2007, 11:02:52 am
Nicki in her cousin's pool.



(http://i183.photobucket.com/albums/x221/Shasta542/Copyof9-22-2006-21.jpg)

OMG Shasta! Too cute!!!!

ell a little minature jack Ruseel puppy will be a new member of the family tomorrow.

My sister is gettng a little puppy. My 3 nieces are very excited. Its going to be called Bracken. They saw it on Friday and will be collecting tomorrow.
Title: Living with felines
Post by: notBastet on October 23, 2007, 11:23:33 am
I have three cats.  One is your typical domesticated house cat - her name is Pepper.  The other two are semi-feral cats that I took to feeding at a place I lived many years ago.  When it was time for me to move, I trapped them and brought them indoors.  (It was that or leave them to their fate - which to me, felt like abandonment.)  So they live inside with us and pretty much mind their own business.  I am not good at enforcing rules.  The cats pretty much go wherever they please.  I do try to wave them out of the way if I am cooking or working on the computer...

The semi-feral ones are buddies.  Pepper doesn't have a feline buddy (her buddy died about two years ago).  I also have two dogs; they also go pretty much wherever they please.  As a result, the cats are fed at elevated locales.  The semi-ferals eat together on top of a chest of drawers near the back door.  Pepper typically eats on top of the refrigerator.  Over the past few days, I noticed Pepper was failing to clean her bowl by the next feeding time.  As you may imagine, I started to become quite anxious about why she wasn't eating.  She certainly seemed fine otherwise.  I contemplated whether to take her in for bloodwork - this would be a big ordeal, as she hates car rides and vomits both on the trip in and on the way home.  Should I try to have someone come out to the house instead?  In the meantime, I contemplated buying a different kind of food, and started cleaning her bowl a bit more rigorously.  She always seemed eager to eat when I first put out the food, but just wasn't finishing like normal.  I also moved her food bowl to a table.  (I was suspicious there may have been cat-cat or cat-dog scuffles near the refrigerator.)  The good news is she eating great with the change in locale!  The bad news is she vomited a gi-normous hairball this morning, then proceeded to have diarrhea all over the house.  Fun for me.  Hopefully now that all systems have had a clearing she will go back to normal and I can quit worrying!

Sigh.

 ;)

(http://i99.photobucket.com/albums/l318/alleycats77/other/Pepper2May07.jpg)

Pepper

(http://i99.photobucket.com/albums/l318/alleycats77/other/Max1May07.jpg)

Max
Title: Re: Living with felines
Post by: Kelda on October 23, 2007, 03:50:15 pm
I have three cats.  One is your typical domesticated house cat - her name is Pepper.  The other two are semi-feral cats that I took to feeding at a place I lived many years ago.  When it was time for me to move, I trapped them and brought them indoors.  (It was that or leave them to their fate - which to me, felt like abandonment.)  So they live inside with us and pretty much mind their own business.  I am not good at enforcing rules.  The cats pretty much go wherever they please.  I do try to wave them out of the way if I am cooking or working on the computer...

The semi-feral ones are buddies.  Pepper doesn't have a feline buddy (her buddy died about two years ago).  I also have two dogs; they also go pretty much wherever they please.  As a result, the cats are fed at elevated locales.  The semi-ferals eat together on top of a chest of drawers near the back door.  Pepper typically eats on top of the refrigerator.  Over the past few days, I noticed Pepper was failing to clean her bowl by the next feeding time.  As you may imagine, I started to become quite anxious about why she wasn't eating.  She certainly seemed fine otherwise.  I contemplated whether to take her in for bloodwork - this would be a big ordeal, as she hates car rides and vomits both on the trip in and on the way home.  Should I try to have someone come out to the house instead?  In the meantime, I contemplated buying a different kind of food, and started cleaning her bowl a bit more rigorously.  She always seemed eager to eat when I first put out the food, but just wasn't finishing like normal.  I also moved her food bowl to a table.  (I was suspicious there may have been cat-cat or cat-dog scuffles near the refrigerator.)  The good news is she eating great with the change in locale!  The bad news is she vomited a gi-normous hairball this morning, then proceeded to have diarrhea all over the house.  Fun for me.  Hopefully now that all systems have had a clearing she will go back to normal and I can quit worrying!

Sigh.

 ;)

(http://i99.photobucket.com/albums/l318/alleycats77/other/Pepper2May07.jpg)

Pepper

(http://i99.photobucket.com/albums/l318/alleycats77/other/Max1May07.jpg)

Max

Pepper and max are cutes and look so alike! Good luck - hope pepper is okay now!
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: Shasta542 on October 31, 2007, 09:30:51 pm
(http://i183.photobucket.com/albums/x221/Shasta542/C1.jpg)

Big sleepyhead sweetie.

(http://i183.photobucket.com/albums/x221/Shasta542/C2.jpg)
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: Kelda on November 01, 2007, 02:04:52 pm
(http://i183.photobucket.com/albums/x221/Shasta542/C1.jpg)

Big sleepyhead sweetie.

(http://i183.photobucket.com/albums/x221/Shasta542/C2.jpg)

heeee!!!
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: Shasta542 on November 01, 2007, 07:29:43 pm
Thank you, Kelda and Susie. I LOVE that dog to pieces--she gets lots of hugs and kisses.The big galoot!
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: notBastet on November 05, 2007, 04:06:23 pm
I was out of town for a few days - had to take my dogs to board the day before I left, and pick them up the day after I got back.  So, I was in my house for about 36 hours without my dogs.  It was very weird, and it put me in a very weird mood.

They are back now, so all is right with the world!

 ;)

Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: Scott6373 on November 05, 2007, 04:11:30 pm
Here you want to take one more for the night...he woke us up at 2am puking cuz he decided to chew the blanket...I'm too old to have a toddler!
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: notBastet on November 05, 2007, 04:19:23 pm
Here you want to take one more for the night...he woke us up at 2am puking cuz he decided to chew the blanket...I'm too old to have a toddler!

Oh Scott, I would be glad to!!!  You'd be crying for him back soon enough, I'm sure...

 ::)

(I hope he has thrown it all up by now!)
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: Scott6373 on November 05, 2007, 04:21:14 pm
Oh Scott, I would be glad to!!!  You'd be crying for him back soon enough, I'm sure...

 ::)

(I hope he has thrown it all up by now!)

You're right of course!
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: ifyoucantfixit on November 05, 2007, 04:43:15 pm





                   Aww poor baby, and poor daddies......... :(
Title: my stupid dog
Post by: notBastet on November 09, 2007, 11:13:36 pm
I love her to death, but sometimes, I just have to shake my head...

She is prone to randomly sensing a threat from inanimate objects - e.g. a car, a trash can, a ball, all presumably placed somewhere as a direct threat to her.  We'll be walking along, and a trash can looks at her the wrong way, and she has a little panic attack (tail down, growls, runs away).  No big deal when we're out walking - we just move along.  Problem is, sometimes it happens with things in the house!  e.g. I have a little space heater in the bathroom - have had it up and running for weeks now.  She walks by it 10x a day.  But sometimes she forgets, and then, proceeds to circle it and growl, till I get up from whatever I am doing to distract her... not too big of a deal really, but I find the low intermittent growling supremely annoying!

 ::)
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: David In Indy on November 10, 2007, 12:41:54 am
Here you want to take one more for the night...he woke us up at 2am puking cuz he decided to chew the blanket...I'm too old to have a toddler!

Oh my God Scott! Grady is soooooooooooooooo cute!!! :D

Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: Shasta542 on November 16, 2007, 12:37:18 am
Today was Scout's 8th birthday. We sang "Happy Birthday" to her, reminisced about her puppyhood, divied up a few cans of vienna sausages, and let her lie on the couch with her new rawhide bone. She approved.
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: Kelda on November 16, 2007, 04:55:24 am
She approved.

 ;D  :laugh:
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: Shasta542 on November 17, 2007, 03:43:37 pm
Here is Scout enjoying her 8th birthday chew bone. She's a little worried about me getting so close because she's afraid I'm going to take it away.  :P   I do that when I have to leave the house so I don't have to worry about one of them getting choked with no one around to help.  

(http://i183.photobucket.com/albums/x221/Shasta542/E009.jpg)(http://i183.photobucket.com/albums/x221/Shasta542/E010.jpg)
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: Kelda on November 17, 2007, 05:40:38 pm
he seems to be enjoying it!!
Title: my dog - she crazy...
Post by: BelAir on November 18, 2007, 09:47:57 pm
She digs, digs, digs, digs on the floor... making a spot to lay down, right?

Then she turns around and jumps up on my lap.  Why all that digging, just to get in my lap?

 ::)
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: Kelda on November 19, 2007, 08:55:52 am
my cat does that too.. and the padding! gha! pad pad pad pad pad pad pad hmm am i comfy or not should i sit down...? no! i'll do some more padding pad pad pad pad..

Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: Shasta542 on November 19, 2007, 09:14:07 am
 ;D  Digging and Padding!!  :laugh:
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: opinionista on November 22, 2007, 09:12:56 am
I'm not sure if this is the right place to post this, but I just saw a documentary on TV about elephants, and it really, really broke my heart. The following article pretty much sums up what the documetary was about. In a nutshell the documentary shows how much elephants and humans resemble each other. It is both interesting and frightening. However, I think us humans are far worse, and are making their lives impossible.

From The TimesFebruary 16, 2006

Elephants never forget . . . and cannot forgive
By Thair Shaikh

THEY say that elephants never forget, and it could be that they are using their memories to exact revenge on people who make their lives a misery.
A new study says that the usually gentle giants may be suffering from post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) brought on by frightening experiences at an early age.

In parts of Uganda they have raided villages, demolished huts and destroyed plots, not in an effort to get at food but to scare the people living there.

Such attacks have become more frequent in Bunyaruguru, western Uganda, where only two years ago villagers would think nothing of cycling to the nearby township of Katwe to meet friends and do business.

But they have to be more careful now because elephants regularly block the roads, and villagers are too afraid to cycle past.

According to the report in New Scientist, elephants across Africa seem to be turning on their human neighbours in ever-increasing numbers. In the past such attacks have always been seen as a side-effect of elephants competing for food and land, as a result of an expanding human population encroaching on elephant land.

Joyce Poole, research director at the Amboseli Elephant Research Project, in Kenya, said: “They are certainly intelligent enough, and have good enough memories, to take revenge. Wildlife managers may feel it is easier to just shoot so-called ‘problem’ elephants than face people’s wrath.

“So an elephant is shot without realising the possible consequences on the remaining family members, and the very real possibility of stimulating a cycle of violence.”

Dr Poole and her colleagues claim that many elephants are suffering from PTSD brought on by experiencing stress at an early age, thought to be the first time it has been diagnosed in wild animals.

Experiments and observations of captive animals suggest that stress experienced during their early years can lead to neurological and behavioural changes that resemble PTSD in humans. Gay Bradshaw, a scientist at Oregon State University and lead author of the paper, said: “This could explain a suite of behaviours that have been common in captivity but sadly now are becoming part of wild elephant behaviour.”

Dr Felicity de Zulueta, a consultant psychiatrist at the Maudsley Hospital in London, who specialises in trauma therapy and grew up in Uganda with an orphaned elephant as a pet, believes the theories have a good basis of truth.

She said that one cause of PTSD in humans is the failure of a child to bond or “attach” properly with its primary carer.

“Prematurely separating an elephant from the family tribe will have very powerful effects in terms of the attachment system. One of these effects would be aggression,” she said.

Poaching has ravaged elephant numbers in Uganda’s Queen Elizabeth National Park, which borders Bunyaruguru, by 90 per cent over the past 30 years. Now only 400 remain — a third of them under five years old and many of them orphans. Across the continent many herds have lost their matriarchs and have had to make do with a succession of inexperienced “teenage mothers” who have raised a generation of juvenile delinquents.

Dr Poole’s study showed a lack of older bulls had led to gangs of hyper-aggressive young males with a penchant for violence towards each other and other species.

Richard Lair, a researcher of Asian elephants at Thailand’s National Elephant Institute, said that the same problems are being seen in India, where villagers, particularly in West Bengal, live in constant fear of bull elephants that the villagers claim attack the village to kill people.


http://www.timesonline.co.uk/tol/news/world/article731367.ece (http://www.timesonline.co.uk/tol/news/world/article731367.ece)
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: Shasta542 on November 22, 2007, 11:19:06 am
That's scary. Sort of what happens in society when there is a lack of good older role models for children. It seems very believable. Sad too.
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: Shasta542 on December 01, 2007, 07:00:25 pm
Well, my buddy-girl couldn't decide whether she'd get on up or nap a little longer -- just takin' her time.

She just stayed like this for a bit, so I caught her in the camera.
 

(http://i183.photobucket.com/albums/x221/Shasta542/AA002.jpg)

(http://i183.photobucket.com/albums/x221/Shasta542/AA003.jpg)


Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: loneleeb3 on December 02, 2007, 12:56:06 am
Just came acrossthis thread.
First, not a big cat fan but when i saw Delalluvia's cats... WOW. They are the  most beautiful cats I have ever seen!
(http://www.walmart.com/catalog/product.do?product_id=6538658)
Most of yall have seenthe horses, here aremy two dogs, Casey is 14 and a choc. lab golden retriever mix. Jake is a 5yr old Jack russell.

Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: Brokeback_Dev on December 02, 2007, 02:05:18 am
Your dogs are beautiful Richard.  Very well taken care of.   We also have a Jack Russell seven years old named Coby.  He looks a lot like yours..  Only thing with mine is that his ears dont flop over.  My little Coby's ears stick up and they're big! lol  I still call him puppy he so small and playful.  He has lots of energy..  He's a short stocky JRT. We love him so much.. Unfortunately I dont have a good pic of him to post here.   :)
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: Shasta542 on December 04, 2007, 10:04:00 pm
One friend who saw this picture said -- she looks so skinny. OMG--she is NOT skinny. She takes after me -- quite chunky. She weighs 150 pounds. I guess it's just the angle.
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: loneleeb3 on December 05, 2007, 09:34:23 pm

Beautiful doggys Richard ...... and such a beautiful daughter!!!

Susie  :)
Thank you Susie!!
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: Shasta542 on December 05, 2007, 11:18:06 pm
Very cute dogs, Richard -- I like the name "Jake", too!  ;D Casey looks like an old sweetie! Jake looks rambunctious.  :P Do they like each other?

OK -- I'm in there giving lots of attention to Scout. She's lazing on the couch just eating it up. Her little sister played with a friend's dog and came out with ... fleas. So I'm checking Scout over to make sure she doesn't have any. I keep Advantage on them because Brooksie is very allergic and if he has a flea he will scratch and bite himself bald!!! Any way -- no fleas on Scout, but while I'm checking -- she passes gas!!! Extremely stinky too -- she had no shame at all.
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: loneleeb3 on December 06, 2007, 12:09:06 am
Very cute dogs, Richard -- I like the name "Jake", too!  ;D Casey looks like an old sweetie! Jake looks rambunctious.  :P Do they like each other?

OK -- I'm in there giving lots of attention to Scout. She's lazing on the couch just eating it up. Her little sister played with a friend's dog and came out with ... fleas. So I'm checking Scout over to make sure she doesn't have any. I keep Advantage on them because Brooksie is very allergic and if he has a flea he will scratch and bite himself bald!!! Any way -- no fleas on Scout, but while I'm checking -- she passes gas!!! Extremely stinky too -- she had no shame at all.

Shasta,
you hit the nail on the head!
Jake is a little spitfire full of piss and vinegar and Casy is my grand old lady!  ;D
They do like each other. Casey is now with me and Jake is with Elizabeth.
I think they really miss each other.  :(
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: BelAir on December 08, 2007, 07:23:46 pm
One friend who saw this picture said -- she looks so skinny. OMG--she is NOT skinny. She takes after me -- quite chunky. She weighs 150 pounds. I guess it's just the angle.

I agree with you Shasta... 150 # on a lab is not skinny.
 ;)

But she doesn't look all that "overweight" in the pic either.
 :)

Maybe she's perfect!
 ;D
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: Shasta542 on December 08, 2007, 07:34:15 pm
I agree with you Shasta... 150 # on a lab is not skinny.
 ;)

But she doesn't look all that "overweight" in the pic either.
 :)

Maybe she's perfect!
 ;D

 ;D Well, I think she is anyway! Thanks!

Her dad was a lab, but her mom was a bullmastiff -- so that's where her size comes from.
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: Shasta542 on January 19, 2008, 09:13:21 pm
Do you all ever watch Animal Planet? There is a show on there called -- I don't know the name of it, but it's about the ASPCA and how they go and rescue abused and neglected animals. I don't watch it too much because it is really extremely sad. I admire the animal officers who do that sad job tho.

Today I watched -- 2 big St. Bernard brothers, Max and Oscar, were rescued. They were being kept in a basement and they were about 50-60 pounds  underweight. But they were so affectionate. Sweet, sweet dogs. Anyway. Max got adopted and I was so sad that they were separated from each other. Then, at the end, Max's new dad had him at the dog park and they'd made a date to meet with Oscar and his new mom. When Max looked and saw Oscar, his ears perked and he ran over to him. It was so CUTE. They played and visited. So -- at least the owners know where each other are in case they are able to get the brothers together occasionally.

The 2 women who'd had possession of them were arrested and could be fined $1,000.00 or spend a month in jail.
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: Dobie1018 on January 19, 2008, 10:24:54 pm
Hi Shasta!  You must live near my neck of the woods because I also just finished watching that same episode of Animal Cops, or whatever the actual name of the show is, on Animal Planet!  How did you like that story about the abandoned puppies?  Little Hope that pulled through and lived and was adopted out to a loving family, when at first they thought she was dead.  What an amazing story!  I watch that show just about every night.  The stories are all sad to start out, but 9 times out of 10, there is a happy ending for the rescued animals.  It is very heartwarming to see the hurt, abused and abandoned animals get rescued, isn't it?
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: Shasta542 on January 20, 2008, 07:50:22 am
Hi Dobie. (I'm in AR) I didn't see the part about Little Hope! I tuned in in the middle I guess. The vets were checking over Max and Oscar when I turned it on. I did see the pretty cat that had its leg broken by an irate owner (they didn't arrest him because he was mentally impaired from a stroke). She was at a foster home with a Yorkie at the end of the show. The two seemed to be getting along.

Didn't you love the way Max reacted when he saw Oscar? That was priceless!

I know most of them turn out nicely -- except the fighting dogs are always put to sleep because the people who had them trained them to be aggressive. And I get so angry at idiots who leave a chain around the dogs neck until it grows into the skin. How long have the poor dogs had to suffer when that happens? It just gives me a pessimistic view of the human race. How can you treat animals -- who totally depend on you -- any way but with love and compassion?

The animal cops are nice tho. I don't see how they do it without getting into depression, but I'm glad they are able to. They do a great service. I wonder if they have to take a hiatus and do a different sort of job in the department every so often?
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: Kelda on January 20, 2008, 08:18:54 am
I will gety pics of the new pup on here at some point - honest!
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: Shasta542 on January 20, 2008, 12:09:13 pm
"Are you quite finished with aggravating me now?"

Yes, she is one of the best natured dogs in the world, but I tried and tried to get a picture with her big ears perked up, and she was having none of it!!  :P  ;D  I love this dog!!


(http://i183.photobucket.com/albums/x221/Shasta542/G009.jpg)
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: Dobie1018 on January 20, 2008, 10:16:56 pm
She is a beautiful dog Shasta!  She looks very hugable in that picture!  I'd like to kiss her right on her lips!   
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: Shasta542 on January 20, 2008, 10:43:15 pm
Thanks!!   LOL -- She loves hugs and kisses!! If you sit still, she'll try to sit on your lap, too!   ;)
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: David In Indy on January 21, 2008, 12:08:22 am
I agree with Dobie, Shasta. She is a very cute dog! :)

Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: Shasta542 on January 21, 2008, 12:58:54 am
  :-* Thanks, David!! She's my soul mate!!  ;D
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: Shasta542 on February 02, 2008, 09:10:41 pm
She's gorgeous Shasta!  I love those big soppy eyes ... I bet she can get away with murder when she looks at you with those lovely peepers!

Susie  :)

Thank you, Missy. She and Charlie would get along well. She loves dogs and kids.
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: David In Indy on February 03, 2008, 04:04:29 pm
Attention All Animal Lovers!!!!


 :D  :D  :D  :D  :D  :D  :D  :D  :D  :D  :D  :D  :D  :D  :D  :D  :D  :D  :D  :D



Puppy Bowl IV starts right now on Animal Planet!!!


(It will repeat again at 6 pm, 9 pm and 12 midnight ET)


Title: Puppy Bowl IV
Post by: David In Indy on February 03, 2008, 04:18:44 pm
Do you like watching a pen full of puppies doing absolutely nothing except cavorting and acting cute?

If your answer is YES!! then tune in to Animal Planet NOW!!

Puppies! Puppies! And more puppies!!  :D

An entire football themed pen full of puppies!

Yep! 3 full hours of puppy tumbles and puppy tackles. Puppy touchdowns, puppy fouls, puppy penalties and puppy field goals.

And if you miss the 3 pm Puppy Bowl, it will repeat at 6 pm, 9 pm and 12 midnight ET!


Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: forsythia12 on February 03, 2008, 05:16:05 pm
for those who haven't yet had the opportunity to watch this video, i thought'd i'd post it for your enjoyment.

it's brokeback mixed with a little meow!
lol

Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: opinionista on February 13, 2008, 04:12:58 pm
I'm not sure if this is already posted somewhere. If so, please feel free to delete. I think the video is old and the story was on the news a while ago. Anyway, it is so beautiful. It had me crying. This is the story behind it. A woman allegedly found a lion in a forest badly injured. She took it home and took care of it until the lion healed completely. Then sent it to a zoo. The video shows the first visit she made the lion a while after he was sent to the zoo. I'm not sure if this is a true story, but the video is worth seeing. The lion's reaction is unbelievable.


[youtube=425,350]http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=azRXD_VLTzU&feature=related[/youtube]
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: Kelda on February 13, 2008, 04:33:28 pm
I'm not sure if this is already posted somewhere. If so, please feel free to delete. I think the video is old and the story was on the news a while ago. Anyway, it is so beautiful. It had me crying. This is the story behind it. A woman allegedly found a lion in a forest badly injured. She took it home and took care of it until the lion healed completely. Then sent it to a zoo. The video shows the first visit she made the lion a while after he was sent to the zoo. I'm not sure if this is a true story, but the video is worth seeing. The lion's reaction is unbelievable.


[youtube=425,350]http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=azRXD_VLTzU&feature=related[/youtube]

 :)

cant be that old natali - about 6 months - as it has Beckham to play football in LA in the very first seconds running along the bottom of thr screen
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: opinionista on February 13, 2008, 04:45:09 pm
:)

cant be that old natali - about 6 months - as it has Beckham to play football in LA in the very first seconds running along the bottom of thr screen

Well, I ain't much of a football fan! I didn't notice  ;D
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: Shasta542 on February 13, 2008, 10:16:31 pm
That's so sweet -- it made me cry too. Very touching.
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: Kelda on March 06, 2008, 02:05:56 pm
I love the pics of Amber and her tennis ball!
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: Katie77 on March 06, 2008, 06:49:52 pm
Here are a couple of pictures of my dog Jake. The first one taken at 8weeks old, the second one taken at 6 months old (with my grandson)  He is a Marema, originally bred to guard flocks of sheep or  goats. They bond with their charges and live with them and protect them. Very faithful and good natured dogs.

The green bird there with Jake is Charlie. He is an alexandrine. He was hand reared, and we have had him since he was a baby. He talks constantly and has a wide vocabulary. He lives in a cage, but we let him out every day to walk around or sit on our shoulder.

(http://i220.photobucket.com/albums/dd7/suekat777/jake8weeksandcharlie.jpg)

(http://i220.photobucket.com/albums/dd7/suekat777/jake6months.jpg)

Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: cornflake2912 on March 08, 2008, 04:03:07 pm
Hi there! I´d like to present you my pets :) tadaaaah:


That´s my dog Silky. He comes from an animal shelter in Hungary:

(http://img329.imageshack.us/img329/927/mg7087qa0.jpg)

These are my rabbits, Joker & Rodeo

(http://img170.imageshack.us/img170/7060/1025264sx7.jpg)

That´s my hamster Marble

(http://img170.imageshack.us/img170/43/img0172zz3.jpg)

And finally my walking leaf.

(http://img216.imageshack.us/img216/1588/1025247wj2.jpg)
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: cornflake2912 on March 08, 2008, 04:04:21 pm
Am so sorry, that the pics are that huge :(
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: Shasta542 on March 08, 2008, 05:29:15 pm
Your dog is beautiful. That is nice to get dogs from a shelter. Some of mine are rescues too.

The rabbits and hamster are very cute!

Where do you keep the leaf -- does it have a name? In an aquarium?

Thanks for sharing the pictures!
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: cornflake2912 on March 09, 2008, 03:33:23 am
Thank you :)
I´ve got a few more of the leaves and also some walking sticks. I´m keeping them in a terrarium and breeding them since 3 years now.
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: Kelda on March 09, 2008, 06:55:32 am
That insect is amazing!
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: cornflake2912 on March 09, 2008, 11:12:33 am
They were 1cm when I got them. Now they´re about 10. These are the biggest walking leafes of the world.
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: Brown Eyes on March 21, 2008, 12:03:10 am

Heya,

I think I may have asked about this at BetterMost before.  But, I'm going to ask again.  For cat-lovers/ owners on this thread... do you have any great advice about tactics for administering Frontline flea treatments to cats?  Vivien and I just spent a miserable evening chasing around my apartment until I finally cornered her to administer the drop to the back of her neck. 

She's at the point now that she knows the *second* that I get the package out... or sometimes even as I walk towards the cupboard where I keep the package... and she begins to take evasive actions.

I feel so guilty because this whole process causes her so much angst.  But, once it's over she's perfectly fine (I mean she's mad at me) but, she doesn't seem to have any adverse reactions to the medication once it's on her.  She doesn't scratch at the spot or act like the medication is bothering her at all.

So, any clever advice about tricks to making this whole process easier would be much, much appreciated.

Thanks!


This is an illustration of Vivien's behavior tonight.
(http://bestsmileys.com/cats1/25.gif)(http://bestsmileys.com/cats2/7.gif)(http://bestsmileys.com/cats2/2.gif)(http://bestsmileys.com/cats2/9.gif)(http://bestsmileys.com/cats1/8.gif)(http://bestsmileys.com/cats1/12.gif)(http://bestsmileys.com/cats2/20.gif)
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: optom3 on March 21, 2008, 01:05:42 am
Heya,

I think I may have asked about this at BetterMost before.  But, I'm going to ask again.  For cat-lovers/ owners on this thread... do you have any great advice about tactics for administering Frontline flea treatments to cats?  Vivien and I just spent a miserable evening chasing around my apartment until I finally cornered her to administer the drop to the back of her neck. 

She's at the point now that she knows the *second* that I get the package out... or sometimes even as I walk towards the cupboard where I keep the package... and she begins to take evasive actions.

I feel so guilty because this whole process causes her so much angst.  But, once it's over she's perfectly fine (I mean she's mad at me) but, she doesn't seem to have any adverse reactions to the medication once it's on her.  She doesn't scratch at the spot or act like the medication is bothering her at all.

So, any clever advice about tricks to making this whole process easier would be much, much appreciated.

Thanks!


This is an illustration of Vivien's behavior tonight.
(http://bestsmileys.com/cats1/25.gif)(http://bestsmileys.com/cats2/7.gif)(http://bestsmileys.com/cats2/2.gif)(http://bestsmileys.com/cats2/9.gif)(http://bestsmileys.com/cats1/8.gif)(http://bestsmileys.com/cats1/12.gif)(http://bestsmileys.com/cats2/20.gif)

I have 2 cats a nd 2 dogs.one of each don't mind the drops the other 2 hate it.I have resorted to bribery,stick the cat on my lap when hes in a good mood,having already got the drops ready.Scratch all round his ears and neck.whilst raisng the fur,at same time daughter hand feeds him cheese and i pounce with the drops.I make sure that the drops are ready at the end of the tube.He doesnt like it but  we often sit sacratching his ears and neck and feding him cheese,he is always surprised.
The day of action so to speak the drops are ready behind a cushion on the sofa,and he nevr knows if it is just a cheese day or cheese and drops!!!! gets him every time.
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: Kelda on March 21, 2008, 03:54:26 pm
hmm it s funny Skimble is fine - I just catch him when hes in relaxed mode....
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: Artiste on March 25, 2008, 07:19:52 pm
Trimed for Easter!

His long Winter hair made him look like a tiny bear before this cut!

Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: Shasta542 on March 25, 2008, 07:40:33 pm
He's so cute, Artiste!! I like his haircut -- very nice for warmer weather! :)
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: MsMercury on March 31, 2008, 10:18:19 pm
Heya,

I think I may have asked about this at BetterMost before.  But, I'm going to ask again.  For cat-lovers/ owners on this thread... do you have any great advice about tactics for administering Frontline flea treatments to cats?  Vivien and I just spent a miserable evening chasing around my apartment until I finally cornered her to administer the drop to the back of her neck. 

She's at the point now that she knows the *second* that I get the package out... or sometimes even as I walk towards the cupboard where I keep the package... and she begins to take evasive actions.

I feel so guilty because this whole process causes her so much angst.  But, once it's over she's perfectly fine (I mean she's mad at me) but, she doesn't seem to have any adverse reactions to the medication once it's on her.  She doesn't scratch at the spot or act like the medication is bothering her at all.

So, any clever advice about tricks to making this whole process easier would be much, much appreciated.

Thanks!


This is an illustration of Vivien's behavior tonight.
(http://bestsmileys.com/cats1/25.gif)(http://bestsmileys.com/cats2/7.gif)(http://bestsmileys.com/cats2/2.gif)(http://bestsmileys.com/cats2/9.gif)(http://bestsmileys.com/cats1/8.gif)(http://bestsmileys.com/cats1/12.gif)(http://bestsmileys.com/cats2/20.gif)

I have one cat in particular that really hates it and he knows what the package looks like. As soon as he hears the "snap" of it opening he runs.  So i've learned to open it in a different room and not let him see it. I go up and start petting him and scratching his neck and when he starts really getting into it I put on the medication.  By the time i'm done is when he starts feeling it.  Works like a charm every time.  ;D
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: MsMercury on March 31, 2008, 10:21:58 pm
Thank you :)
I´ve got a few more of the leaves and also some walking sticks. I´m keeping them in a terrarium and breeding them since 3 years now.

Where did you get the walking leaf? What a cool pet!
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: Kelda on April 02, 2008, 02:05:50 pm
pictures please!
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: MsMercury on April 03, 2008, 02:31:45 am
Awww, what a cute little hammie!
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: Kelda on April 03, 2008, 04:59:53 pm
LOL! I love the hammy and doggy one!
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: BelAir on May 14, 2008, 12:15:37 am
Amanda,

Does your cat have a history of flea problems? 

There is an oral anti-flea product called Program/lufenuron.  It may not be quite as effective for a cat with flea allergies, etc.  but it works fine for my cats.  The topical products all gave the cats horrible dandruff so I switched to Program (it is also a cheaper product at my vets, at least).

Poll: favorite cat litter?

I recently switched Arm and Hammer types (from Super Scooper to multi cat) and it was ABSOLUTE DISASTER.  I am NEVER buying the multi cat kind again!

 8)
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: Hersch on May 16, 2008, 04:03:17 pm
I currently have two horses, two dogs, three goats and two cats in the barn. I have had as many as sixteen cats but they keep running off to search for romance or get killed by coyotes or foxes. The two left are Pumpkin and Miss Kitty.. Miss Kitty is pregnant so I should have more "mousers" this summer.

The goats are Gilbert Gandolfini, a Swiss Taggenberg, Pedro Cruz, a nubian goat, and Bambi Bensinger, a miniature-mix who is crippled. My neighbors gave her to me. She got frost bite when she was born and lost parts of her rear legs. She gets along fine ,is very fast, but just slants a bit!

My dogs are K.D. Fang a tiger striped brindled hound mix who is old and deaf,but still very active, and Blue my Australian Cattle dog.

The horses are Pris (Jays Red Snip) and her son, L.B. (Tardys Rey Jay). I've had Pris since she was four. She is nineteen now. L.B. is five. They are both Foundation registered American Quarter Horses ( the horse of the American cowboy) which means they have very old bloodlines with less than 20% Thoroughbred ancestry.

I keep thinking about raising chickens, but not too sure I want to go there.


Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: loneleeb3 on May 16, 2008, 04:26:23 pm
I currently have two horses, two dogs, three goats and two cats in the barn. I have had as many as sixteen cats but they keep running off to search for romance or get killed by coyotes or foxes. The two left are Pumpkin and Miss Kitty.. Miss Kitty is pregnant so I should have more "mousers" this summer.

The goats are Gilbert Gandolfini, a Swiss Taggenberg, Pedro Cruz, a nubian goat, and Bambi Bensinger, a miniature-mix who is crippled. My neighbors gave her to me. She got frost bite when she was born and lost parts of her rear legs. She gets along fine ,is very fast, but just slants a bit!

My dogs are K.D. Fang a tiger striped brindled hound mix who is old and deaf,but still very active, and Blue my Australian Cattle dog.

The horses are Pris (Jays Red Snip) and her son, L.B. (Tardys Rey Jay). I've had Pris since she was four. She is nineteen now. L.B. is five. They are both Foundation registered American Quarter Horses ( the horse of the American cowboy) which means they have very old bloodlines with less than 20% Thoroughbred ancestry.

I keep thinking about raising chickens, but not too sure I want to go there.

I hear you about the Chickens!
My Step Mom  wants to get them so my daughter will know what it's like to collect eggs!
I told she can do that at the Piggly Wiggly for a lot less trouble!LOL
She didn't think it was funny!
We have 14 cats that hang out around the barn, the shop and the house.
Only 3 of them are named.  I only know Sissy I forgetthe other two.
We have 6 dogs- Briar, Jody, Rody, Patty, Terri and Lobo
The horses we have are all rescues: Dancer, Trio, Ellie, Moriah and Ginger. We just lost two this winter Donna and Gambler.
Donna had a stroke and Gambler just faded away after Donna passed.
I love the farm. Wish I could live there full time.
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: injest on May 16, 2008, 06:22:22 pm
Amanda,

Does your cat have a history of flea problems? 

There is an oral anti-flea product called Program/lufenuron.  It may not be quite as effective for a cat with flea allergies, etc.  but it works fine for my cats.  The topical products all gave the cats horrible dandruff so I switched to Program (it is also a cheaper product at my vets, at least).

Poll: favorite cat litter?

I recently switched Arm and Hammer types (from Super Scooper to multi cat) and it was ABSOLUTE DISASTER.  I am NEVER buying the multi cat kind again!

 8)

I use basic clay...no additives or anything. just seems easier to clean up to me.
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: Penthesilea on May 19, 2008, 06:05:45 am
I got a new pic of my Mäxi for you David (and everybody). I found it so cute and thought I'd share:

(http://i101.photobucket.com/albums/m47/Penthesilea06/Familie/IMGP0008.jpg)
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: BelAir on July 12, 2008, 08:23:01 pm
Cat people - I'm curious if you have any favorite hairball remedies/prevention strategies??

There's a hairball epidemic at my house!!

 :P
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: Shasta542 on July 12, 2008, 08:30:09 pm
Ewwwww....I always hated those little surprises!!!

When I had a cat, I used a treatment that was sort of an ointment in a tube. I got it at Petco, but I don't know the name. You put in on the cat's paws and he/she licks it off.  

I think my next kitty will be a Sphynx cat!  :P ;D
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: BelAir on July 12, 2008, 08:33:30 pm
Haha!  That is a great idea!

I used the ointment many years ago, and then switched to 'anti-hairball' food - whatever that means... but I was thinking I may have to go back to the ointment...

 ::)
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: delalluvia on July 13, 2008, 12:29:49 pm
Cat people - I'm curious if you have any favorite hairball remedies/prevention strategies??

There's a hairball epidemic at my house!!

 :P

Get cats who don't have undercoats and voila!, no hairball problems.   8) If it's too late for that I used to brush them a lot, buy them food with hairball remedies in them and/or feeding them a bit of Cod Liver oil every so often.
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: Shasta542 on July 13, 2008, 01:45:08 pm
What are the cats that don't have undercoats? Is it a specific breed, or do you just have to look?

My calico did not shed much at all. I got her at a Humane Society shelter when she was a baby and she lived to be 17. I was happy that she didn't shed much.

I have a mixed breed dog that sheds 24/7 all year long. I don't know why he's not bald by now, but he has plenty of hair. I can brush for an hour and the next day, more shedding. He's 13, the hairball, my protector; I love him. The Yorkies don't shed at all. The labs shed a little. The weener doesn't shed much.
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: delalluvia on July 13, 2008, 02:00:52 pm
What are the cats that don't have undercoats? Is it a specific breed, or do you just have to look?

My calico did not shed much at all. I got her at a Humane Society shelter when she was a baby and she lived to be 17. I was happy that she didn't shed much.

I have a mixed breed dog that sheds 24/7 all year long. I don't know why he's not bald by now, but he has plenty of hair. I can brush for an hour and the next day, more shedding. He's 13, the hairball, my protector; I love him. The Yorkies don't shed at all. The labs shed a little. The weener doesn't shed much.


It's the breed.  My oriental shorthair cat doesn't have an undercoat.  Or so they tell me.  She barely sheds at all.  When she does, it's always the top coat.  I run one of those "undercoat combs" over her and I get a dozen tophairs, at most.
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: Brown Eyes on July 13, 2008, 08:49:02 pm
Heya,

This is not a post specifically about an animal in my own life, but I thought I'd post this here anyway since it seems like a pretty appropriate thread for this topic.

Have any of you seen the ASPCA commercial featuring Sarah McLaughlin?  I've seen it a couple times... and I just saw it again this evening.  And man!  I end up truly crying everytime I've seen it.  I mean I had to run and get a tissue and clean up a little bit after seeing it just now.  Usually when I see it coming on I quickly change the channel because it impacts me so much.
 :'( :'( :'(

It definitely makes me want to contribute to an animal shelter.  I may make a contribution to the animal shelter where I got Vivien soon.  I gave them a contribution when I adopted her in addition to paying my adoption fee. Maybe I'll start making that a more regular habit. I've always thought it would be good to volunteer for a shelter, but I honestly don't think I could handle it emotionally.  Seeing sad or abused animals upsets me on a raw level more than almost anything else.

Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: delalluvia on July 13, 2008, 09:05:59 pm
Heya,

This is not a post specifically about an animal in my own life, but I thought I'd post this here anyway since it seems like a pretty appropriate thread for this topic.

Have any of you seen the ASPCA commercial featuring Sarah McLaughlin?  I've seen it a couple times... and I just saw it again this evening.  And man!  I end up truly crying everytime I've seen it.  I mean I had to run and get a tissue and clean up a little bit after seeing it just now.  Usually when I see it coming on I quickly change the channel because it impacts me so much.
 :'( :'( :'(

It definitely makes me want to contribute to an animal shelter.  I may make a contribution to the animal shelter where I got Vivien soon.  I gave them a contribution when I adopted her in addition to paying my adoption fee. Maybe I'll start making that a more regular habit. I've always thought it would be good to volunteer for a shelter, but I honestly don't think I could handle it emotionally.  Seeing sad or abused animals upsets me on a raw level more than almost anything else.



 :'( :'( :'( :'(

I've seen it once and have not been able to sit through it again.  If it comes on, I flip the channel because it hurts so much to see them suffering and confused and not knowing why they're in their situation.  I wish I were wealthy so I could adopt an entire shelter and fund it fully and properly.
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: Shasta542 on July 13, 2008, 09:33:49 pm
Heya,

This is not a post specifically about an animal in my own life, but I thought I'd post this here anyway since it seems like a pretty appropriate thread for this topic.

Have any of you seen the ASPCA commercial featuring Sarah McLaughlin?  I've seen it a couple times... and I just saw it again this evening.  And man!  I end up truly crying everytime I've seen it.  I mean I had to run and get a tissue and clean up a little bit after seeing it just now.  Usually when I see it coming on I quickly change the channel because it impacts me so much.
 :'( :'( :'(

It definitely makes me want to contribute to an animal shelter.  I may make a contribution to the animal shelter where I got Vivien soon.  I gave them a contribution when I adopted her in addition to paying my adoption fee. Maybe I'll start making that a more regular habit. I've always thought it would be good to volunteer for a shelter, but I honestly don't think I could handle it emotionally.  Seeing sad or abused animals upsets me on a raw level more than almost anything else.



Bless your heart. I understand. I see it all the time and I have cried over it to. It's so touching and the little animals (and big ones) just look so longingly -- like take me home and love me. I can't bear to see the little one with its eye sewn shut. And that song....so beautiful. I have my 7 rescue dogs (plus my other 2)--they are all part of the family, but I can't get anymore. I want every one I see.

My best friend is the same way. She has 7 dogs and 3 cats -- all rescues. But she has a ranch and more $$. One of hers that she rescued had to have over $1,000.00 surgery because when she found him, he had been shot twice. Then she had all his shots and had him neutered. She kept his brother who was with him, too, but the brother wasn't hurt.

That will be nice to contribute to a shelter -- they can use it.
 
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: delalluvia on August 29, 2008, 06:20:15 pm
It's not about my pet, but just wanted to share this.

A neighbor of mine has a beautiful red Doberman Pinscher.  It's hard to know this dog exists if you didn't see him every evening being walked because you never hear him bark he's so well trained.

A week or so ago it rained fairly heavily here.

I was driving in the apartment parking lot, to my apartment, when I saw my neighbor walking this dog.  There is no sidewalk on the street side of my apartment.  It's meant to discourage any loiterers.  It's just a patch of grass and a line of large trees.  Many people take their dogs there.  Anyway, it had been raining and the ground was wet and the guy was trying to stay out of the mud, puddles and parking lot, so he was walking on the curb, balancing one foot in front of the other as he went.  I noticed his dog was behind him and as I passed them, I realized with a shock, that the dog was doing the exact same thing!!!!   :o :o :o

The dog was walking on the curb, single file with his master.  As I passed, one of the dog's paws slipped and he immediately put the paw back on the curb.

Dogs can be so amazing!!!!
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: Katie77 on August 29, 2008, 06:52:27 pm
I just posted this little video of my dog Jake in my blog, then I saw this thread bumped, so thought I would add it in here too.

Jake is a Mareema, originally bred to guard small stock like goats and chickens and sheep. Working dogs, are actually left with the animals they guard 24/7, they bond with them and protect them against any predators.

Our Jake has bonded with us, sleeps beside our bed every night and seems to be on duty while ever we are in bed, but once we are up and moving around, he guards our 2acre property. Beautiful natured dog, gentle and affectionate.

He is two years old.

(http://i220.photobucket.com/albums/dd7/suekat777/th_IMGP0161.jpg) (http://s220.photobucket.com/albums/dd7/suekat777/?action=view&current=IMGP0161.flv)
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: David In Indy on August 29, 2008, 07:06:09 pm
Oh he's so cute Sue!! I want to hug him and kiss him!  :-*  :-*

What a cutie!! I love the name too. My next door neighbor's dog is named Jake. He's a border collie. Cute as can be, but he's a real bundle of energy. Sometimes he manages to leap over my backyard fence to play with Cody! :laugh:

Thanks for posting the picture! :D

Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: exKinnearGal on September 04, 2008, 12:35:42 am
Well crud...  I should have posted my story about NT here.  SO sorry!  I'll save all my other cat stories, and some pics, for here.  :)
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: Kelda on September 04, 2008, 02:01:44 pm
Well crud...  I should have posted my story about NT here.  SO sorry!  I'll save all my other cat stories, and some pics, for here.  :)

Looking forward to it.
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: Shasta542 on September 07, 2008, 06:59:59 pm
The Meaning Behind the Top 30 Male Dog Names

http://www.petplace.com/dogs/male-dog-names/page1.aspx (http://www.petplace.com/dogs/male-dog-names/page1.aspx)

The analysis for "Cody" is on #7, David. I think it sounds like your boy.   ;)

My boys' names, Cam and Brooks, aren't on there. "Max" is on there. Isn't that Chrissi's beautiful dog's name? There may be others. Tell us if the description matches your dog.

There was a "Rusty" -- my "Rusti" was a girl, but she was a reddish color, and she was affectionate.
  :)
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: CellarDweller on September 07, 2008, 07:48:33 pm
talking animals.

 :laugh:



[youtube=425,350]http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uxZabf3u89s[/youtube]
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: Kerry on September 08, 2008, 09:03:31 am

talking animals.

 :laugh:


 :laugh:  (http://s119.photobucket.com/albums/o126/kez4oz/Album%201/funnypost.gif)   :laugh:
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: Katie77 on September 08, 2008, 09:40:16 am
Two new additions to our household, with compliments of our son, who has gone travelling around Australia.....

Two turtles........who live in a six foot fish tank, which used to be the home for our fish, but as fish and turtles dont live happily together, we took our fish into our pet shop to be sold, and adopted the turtles.

Oh, we are also now the proud parents of two blue tongue lizards as well, another present from our prodigal son.

Hard to take a pic, as the turtles dont stay still to pose.....

(http://i220.photobucket.com/albums/dd7/suekat777/IMGP0239.jpg)
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: Kerry on September 08, 2008, 09:52:27 am
Two new additions to our household, with compliments of our son, who has gone travelling around Australia.....

Two turtles........who live in a six foot fish tank, which used to be the home for our fish, but as fish and turtles dont live happily together, we took our fish into our pet shop to be sold, and adopted the turtles.

Oh, we are also now the proud parents of two blue tongue lizards as well, another present from our prodigal son.

Hard to take a pic, as the turtles dont stay still to pose.....


Awww, I love  blue tongue lizards.  :D
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: Katie77 on September 08, 2008, 09:59:19 am
Awww, I love  blue tongue lizards.  :D

Yes they are gorgeous.....and hes had them since they were babies, so they would not survive out in the wild. They are not very active at the moment, still having their winter sleep. Apparently they like eating snails, so now we have to search around the garden for those. Its amazing, when you want bloody snails, there are none around. ::) ::)
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: Kerry on September 08, 2008, 10:39:56 am
Yes they are gorgeous.....and hes had them since they were babies, so they would not survive out in the wild. They are not very active at the moment, still having their winter sleep. Apparently they like eating snails, so now we have to search around the garden for those. Its amazing, when you want bloody snails, there are none around. ::) ::)

We had a couple of BTLs lived in our back yard when I was a kid, Sue, and remember they used to love eating apple cores and banana skins. So, if there are no snails around, head for the fruit bowl, haha!  :D
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: Katie77 on September 08, 2008, 10:56:28 am
Yes, Kerry we give them banana and celery too.

Heres something that came to my notice the other day....I was talking to a friend in America and told her that we have silk worms in the pet shop now, and she did not know what they were.

Has anyone from over there, ever had silk worms when they were kids? They feed on mulberry leaves, and spin cocoons of silk. Thats about all they do, but most kids I ever knew here, had some silk worms at some time during their childhood.
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: Brokeback_Dev on September 08, 2008, 11:04:32 am
WORMS !  YUK  :o
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: Katie77 on September 08, 2008, 11:36:38 am
WORMS !  YUK  :o

They are silk worms....LOL

And........where do you think they get bloody silk from.........over in China, they have huge factories, with millions and millions of silk worms spinning out silk. I saw that on a documentary one time.

And knowing the Chinese and what their eating habits are, no doubt, once the silk worm stops spinning silk, they probably eat the poor things.
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: Brokeback_Dev on September 08, 2008, 11:47:51 am
They are silk worms....LOL

And........where do you think they get bloody silk from.........over in China, they have huge factories, with millions and millions of silk worms spinning out silk. I saw that on a documentary one time.

And knowing the Chinese and what their eating habits are, no doubt, once the silk worm stops spinning silk, they probably eat the poor things.

             :laugh: :laugh: :laugh: :laugh: :laugh: :laugh: :laugh: :laugh: :laugh: :laugh: :laugh: :laugh:
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: Kerry on September 08, 2008, 12:08:49 pm

I kept silk worms as a child. A neighbour had a big old mulberry tree and I got leaves from his mulberry tree to feed them. I seem to remember it was more of a boy thing at my school. The girls weren't too interested in keeping silk worms.  ::)

It's true about the Chinese keeping silk worms. They've done so for many centuries. Hence the Silk Road to the West. Silk (and hence silk worms) was one of the primary things that initially attracted Western traders to China.  :D
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: Katie77 on September 08, 2008, 12:16:36 pm
I kept silk worms as a child. A neighbour had a big old mulberry tree and I got leaves from his mulberry tree to feed them. I seem to remember it was more of a boy thing at my school. The girls weren't too interested in keeping silk worms.  ::)

It's true about the Chinese keeping silk worms. They've done so for many centuries. Hence the Silk Road to the West. Silk (and hence silk worms) was one of the primary things that initially attracted Western traders to China.  :D

Oh thank god, someone agrees with me, and not that Im surprised, an Aussie. Is it because we are a weird mob??

Yes Kerry, the documentary I saw was about the Silk Road, and I must say, I was flabergasted when I saw the factories of silk worms spinning the silk.

We got the silk worms in the pet shop just to see how they would go. They come in plastic containers (OMG just like what you get Chinese takeaway in), I think there are about six worms in each container. Anyway, we only bought eight containers, and sold out within two hours, so they are obviously still pretty popular with the kids.
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: Kelda on September 08, 2008, 02:14:12 pm
They are silk worms....LOL

And........where do you think they get bloody silk from........

 ;D

Love the swimming turtles pic - wanna see the lizards too!

I'd like to see a pic of the silk worms too actually!

In primary school the girls used to keep snails... we'd keep them in a butter tub (basically plastic box) with air holes and then let them slither about our trays during classes (these were the slide out trays under our desk that you were meant to put jotters in!)
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: Kerry on September 08, 2008, 06:12:06 pm
;D

Love the swimming turtles pic - wanna see the lizards too!

I'd like to see a pic of the silk worms too actually!

In primary school the girls used to keep snails... we'd keep them in a butter tub (basically plastic box) with air holes and then let them slither about our trays during classes (these were the slide out trays under our desk that you were meant to put jotters in!)

Here ya go, Kelda. Click on this link for lots of silkworm pics, showing the different stages of their life cycle from worm (actually a large, plump, white grub, approx. 4cm long), through silk cocoon to white moth. It would be nice to think that something that spins such exquisite silk would finally emerge from its cocoon as a dazzlingly beautiful, brilliantly coloured butterfly. Alas, however, that's not the case. They're very drab little moths. Here's the link:

http://entomology.unl.edu/images/silkworm/silkworm.htm
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: Kerry on September 08, 2008, 06:24:29 pm
Oh thank god, someone agrees with me, and not that Im surprised, an Aussie. Is it because we are a weird mob??

Yes Kerry, the documentary I saw was about the Silk Road, and I must say, I was flabergasted when I saw the factories of silk worms spinning the silk.

We got the silk worms in the pet shop just to see how they would go. They come in plastic containers (OMG just like what you get Chinese takeaway in), I think there are about six worms in each container. Anyway, we only bought eight containers, and sold out within two hours, so they are obviously still pretty popular with the kids.

The kids at my school kept their silkworms in cardboard shoe boxes. For someone who's had no experience of silkworms, it must sound quite strange to hear me say they're funny, friendly, agreeable little fellows!  ;D They're very sluggish and slow-moving and spend all their lives munching contentedly away on mulberry leaves, which may account for their unique, very distinctive odour.
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: David In Indy on September 09, 2008, 12:22:33 am
Hi Shasta!

Here's what it said about my dog...

"CODY – Cody is a great name and is often associated with dogs that are gentle and mild-mannered. They are eager to please and want to be loved. Most Cody's are very huggable. Origin: English. Meaning: Reassuring."

Yup. That describes my baby all right. :D

It sounds just like him.
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: Shasta542 on September 09, 2008, 06:53:49 am
Huggable!

{{{{{{{{{{CODY}}}}}}}}}}

Give Cody a big hug for me, David!!   :)
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: injest on September 09, 2008, 07:11:06 am
The Meaning Behind the Top 30 Male Dog Names

http://www.petplace.com/dogs/male-dog-names/page1.aspx (http://www.petplace.com/dogs/male-dog-names/page1.aspx)

The analysis for "Cody" is on #7, David. I think it sounds like your boy.   ;)

My boys' names, Cam and Brooks, aren't on there. "Max" is on there. Isn't that Chrissi's beautiful dog's name? There may be others. Tell us if the description matches your dog.

There was a "Rusty" -- my "Rusti" was a girl, but she was a reddish color, and she was affectionate.
  :)

The only one of our dogs is this:

23. WINSTON – Dogs given this rather distinguished name often uphold the name with dignity. They are commonly loyal and friendly. They like to meet new people and can be quite smart. Origin: English. The meaning is: Kind Town; or a friend's estate.


and it is nothing like our dog! LOL!! except the smart part....but I think it is because we didnt' name him Winston as in the name but as in the gun....We also have one named Remie (Remington) and one named Magnum, had one named Colt, see the trend there??  :laugh:

Winston is our best guard dog.

Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: Shasta542 on September 10, 2008, 07:07:36 am
They're both kinda cute.  ;D



(http://i104.photobucket.com/albums/m187/melpuss2002/pig-lipstick.jpg)




(http://i131.photobucket.com/albums/p309/blkdog3659/2829300351_e58a9080411.jpg)


Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: CellarDweller on September 10, 2008, 10:33:36 am
silkworms as pets?

Never heard of that, but if they have ant farms, why not silkworms?
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: Shasta542 on September 10, 2008, 10:49:40 pm
(http://i119.photobucket.com/albums/o128/mmlilly/soulmate-1.jpg)
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: Katie77 on September 10, 2008, 11:25:29 pm
"Until one has loved an animal, a part of ones soul remains unawakened"

...........every animal lover would agree with that.
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: Katie77 on October 04, 2008, 05:52:00 am
NAIROBI (AFP) -  A baby hippopotamus that survived  the

tsunami waves on the Kenyan coast has  formed a strong 

bond with a giant male century-old  tortoise in an animal

facility in the port city of Mombassa,  officials said.

The hippopotamus,  nicknamedOwen and  weighing about

300 kilograms (650 pounds), was swept  down Sabaki

River into the Ind ian Ocean , then  forced back to shore

when tsunami waves struck the Kenyan  coast on

December 26, before wildlife rangers  rescued him.

(http://i220.photobucket.com/albums/dd7/suekat777/hippo1.jpg)

"It is incredible.  A-less-than-a-year-old hippo has adopted  a

male  tortoise, about a century old, and the tortoise seems  to

be very  happy with being a 'mother'," ecologist Paula Kahumbu, 

who is in  charge of Lafarge Park , told  AFP.

(http://i220.photobucket.com/albums/dd7/suekat777/hippo2.jpg)

"After it was swept away and lost its  mother, the hippo was traumatized.

It had to look for something to be a  surrogate mother.

Fortunately, it landed on the tortoise  and established a strong bond.

They swim, eat and sleep together," the  ecologist added.

"The hippo follows the tortoise exactly  the way it followed its mother.

If somebody approaches the tortoise,  the hippo becomes aggressive,

as if protecting its biological  mother," Kahumbu added.

(http://i220.photobucket.com/albums/dd7/suekat777/hippo3.jpg)

"The hippo is a young  baby, he was left  at a very tender age and

by nature, hippos are social animals  that like to stay with their

mothers for four years," he  explained.

(http://i220.photobucket.com/albums/dd7/suekat777/hippo5.jpg)

"Life is not measured by the number of  breaths we take,

but by the moments that take our breath  away."

(http://i220.photobucket.com/albums/dd7/suekat777/hippo6.jpg)


Much  of life can never be explained but only  witnessed."
-  Rachel Naomi Remen, MD






Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: Kelda on October 04, 2008, 06:32:16 am
so cute.

i wonder if there is any pics of them now!?! It'll be like little and large!
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: keller on October 04, 2008, 10:26:34 pm
People ask me what kind of dog I have and I just answer "that's a good question".

I rescued Keller when he was about a year old. He is white with one brown spot on his back and brown around the eyes, but not connected, so it's not a mask.

He is a mutant. Deaf. Blind in one scary eye. The eyes are ice blue and startling. For an idea, go to http://deafdogs.org/faq/ and scroll down. Look for the eyes with the pupils messed up and off center.

He is probably an Australian cattle dog, but we'll never know.

He's now six. Convinced he's constantly starving, he is always standing at the dog food cabinet behind me and whining. (He's very overweight.)

When we go for a walk, he thinks he's in charge and puts the leash in his mouth and loves to suddenly stop and pull hard on it. Good thing he can't hear my response. (Probably also good he's deaf and can't hear my harp playing.)

Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: Kelda on October 05, 2008, 04:53:07 am
and you love him so much you're screenname is named after him!
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: Katie77 on October 05, 2008, 04:54:52 am
People ask me what kind of dog I have and I just answer "that's a good question".

I rescued Keller when he was about a year old. He is white with one brown spot on his back and brown around the eyes, but not connected, so it's not a mask.

He is a mutant. Deaf. Blind in one scary eye. The eyes are ice blue and startling. For an idea, go to http://deafdogs.org/faq/ and scroll down. Look for the eyes with the pupils messed up and off center.

He is probably an Australian cattle dog, but we'll never know.

He's now six. Convinced he's constantly starving, he is always standing at the dog food cabinet behind me and whining. (He's very overweight.)

When we go for a walk, he thinks he's in charge and puts the leash in his mouth and loves to suddenly stop and pull hard on it. Good thing he can't hear my response. (Probably also good he's deaf and can't hear my harp playing.)



I was amazed when I read the description of your dog. Our son had a dog very similar, which sadly had to be put down only a month or so ago.

He too, was white with a brown spot, stone deaf, and blind in one eye,  and could hardly see out of the other one, and his blue eyes used to seem like they were looking in different directions. He was dumped out the front of our property, where we used to live, which had big properties around us with sheep, so we always assumed he was a sheep dog, (kelpie, or maybe a cross border collie). We live in Australia, so he may have been, as you say, an Australian cattle dog.

We called him Albie, short for Albino. We think he was also retarded or autistic, because for the ten years my son had him, he continually walked or ran around in circles. He would pick a tree, or a shed, and then continually run around it, all day long, until eventually he had a foot deep furrow around it. Even if we leaned a broom up against the wall, he would circle thru the broom. We figure he must have travelled nearly a million miles in his lifetime.

He never put on much weight because of all the running he used to do, but he had a huge chest, which we always said, was the huge heart he must have, once again for all the runnig he did.

He lived a happy life, and was much loved by all the family.












Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: keller on October 05, 2008, 01:45:55 pm
and you love him so much you're screenname is named after him!

Hah! I had forgotten that.

Katie, mine is also broad through the chest. Don't know if it's related to the mutation or  just the breed.

Deaf dogs do tend to bark at shadows and pretty much anything that moves. But I don't know about the circling the tree thing.

Keller seems to have good vision in one eye. He is able to play fetch, when he's not too lazy.

The dog before him that I rescued was chronically underweight, runt of the litter probably. So I have a hard time knowing normal weight.
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: Shasta542 on October 05, 2008, 02:14:39 pm
I like your dog's name---is it in honor of Helen?

The vet will tell you a good weight for the dog.

Last month at the vet, four of mine were supposedly "overweight" and the other three were "perfect".  :P

The perfect ones run all the time. The others nap. I don't overfeed them. They all seem to be happy anyway!  ;D
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: keller on October 05, 2008, 07:56:24 pm
I like your dog's name---is it in honor of Helen?

The vet will tell you a good weight for the dog.

Last month at the vet, four of mine were supposedly "overweight" and the other three were "perfect".  :P

The perfect ones run all the time. The others nap. I don't overfeed them. They all seem to be happy anyway!  ;D


That was my challenge. I took him to the vet annual for shots and check up and they never said anything, so I figured he was fine. Then I moved and they got on my case for his obesity.  :-\

He naps a lot these days, but is always eager and energetic for a walk. So I figure he's okay, even if he is round about the middle.
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: Katie77 on October 06, 2008, 04:19:19 am
A vet told my mum one time, because she had an overweight dog, was to feed him twice a day, only leave the feed dish out for him for 20 minutes, then take it away, until the second feed of the day.

Apparently it is when they "graze" all day, by having food in front of them that they often become obese.
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: injest on October 06, 2008, 07:35:41 am
A vet told my mum one time, because she had an overweight dog, was to feed him twice a day, only leave the feed dish out for him for 20 minutes, then take it away, until the second feed of the day.

Apparently it is when they "graze" all day, by having food in front of them that they often become obese.

I had a cat that I would feed 'at will'...just leave the food down for him. and he never overate at all.

I have a cat now though that would kill himself if I let him....he scarfs up his food then shoves the other cat off her bowl and eats hers....

he also eats EVERYTHING he can get his paws on...newspaper, tissues, papertowels, anything with glue on it...he digs in the garbage..

I think he needs an intervention! maybe a couple of weeks in rehab...a therapist!

Now I feed him seperately and only leave food down for a half hour. so he eats his up as quick as possible then lays on the floor and stares at the other cat thru the crack at the bottom of the door, just crying like a baby....
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: Katie77 on October 06, 2008, 07:55:45 am
hahhahaa.....cats are funny......i love em........

we have a cat that lives at the pet shop......lays all over the stuff we have for sale, like he owns it all......but everyone loves him, and he follows them around the shop, and then usually someone picks him up and carries him as they walk around the shop....
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: Kelda on October 06, 2008, 04:42:57 pm
I had a cat that I would feed 'at will'...just leave the food down for him. and he never overate at all.

I have a cat now though that would kill himself if I let him....he scarfs up his food then shoves the other cat off her bowl and eats hers....

he also eats EVERYTHING he can get his paws on...newspaper, tissues, papertowels, anything with glue on it...he digs in the garbage..

I think he needs an intervention! maybe a couple of weeks in rehab...a therapist!


 :laugh: Sounds like my kitty cat - who goes for his annual injections tomorrow - I'm dreading the weigh in!!
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: injest on October 07, 2008, 07:36:44 am
:laugh: Sounds like my kitty cat - who goes for his annual injections tomorrow - I'm dreading the weigh in!!

well how did it go?  :)
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: Kelda on October 07, 2008, 02:32:17 pm
well how did it go?  :)

Okay actually! He just meowed a lot to and from the vets in the car and was very inquisative and miewoy in the vetrs room.... but hes fine now - and shje said he was healthy and that at 4.6kg he wasn't too bad with the weight...
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: Katie77 on October 07, 2008, 05:16:57 pm
well how did it go?  :)

and how did YOU go.....??
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: Katie77 on October 07, 2008, 10:28:14 pm
hahhahaa.....cats are funny......i love em........

we have a cat that lives at the pet shop......lays all over the stuff we have for sale, like he owns it all......but everyone loves him, and he follows them around the shop, and then usually someone picks him up and carries him as they walk around the shop....

Took these pics this morning of our "shop cat".....He actually came in when he was a kitten,to be sold, and he had a ringworm, so my son put him out the back and treated him for a about six weeks, and then got so attached to him, kept him in the shop.

(http://i220.photobucket.com/albums/dd7/suekat777/IMGP0318.jpg)

(http://i220.photobucket.com/albums/dd7/suekat777/IMGP0319.jpg)

(http://i220.photobucket.com/albums/dd7/suekat777/IMGP0320.jpg)
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: injest on October 08, 2008, 12:01:08 am
and how did YOU go.....??

wee wee wee all the way home!!


and you??
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: Katie77 on October 08, 2008, 12:47:37 am
I always go, before I head home....... ::)
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: injest on October 08, 2008, 12:54:26 am
I always go, before I head home....... ::)

GOOD! hate accidents....
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: Katie77 on October 08, 2008, 12:59:20 am
Hahahaa....I remember when I was a kid, and if we were going out in the car, even for half hour, and Mum would tell us to go to the toilet before we left......Only thing was, we did not really want to go then......but sure enough, ten minutes down the road, our bladder was busting...... :laugh: :laugh:
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: injest on October 08, 2008, 01:35:48 am
Hahahaa....I remember when I was a kid, and if we were going out in the car, even for half hour, and Mum would tell us to go to the toilet before we left......Only thing was, we did not really want to go then......but sure enough, ten minutes down the road, our bladder was busting...... :laugh: :laugh:

and my dad HATED it...
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: Katie77 on October 08, 2008, 01:54:42 am
Yeah, but if dads or husbands have a full bladder, they just get out on the side of the bloody road........well my hubby does.... :o :o
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: David In Indy on October 08, 2008, 02:22:00 am
Yeah, but if dads or husbands have a full bladder, they just get out on the side of the bloody road........well my hubby does.... :o :o

Oh I can't do that! I have a VERY shy bladder. I have problems even peeing in a public bathroom. And I can NEVER use the urinals. I have to pee in one of the toilet stalls. And sometimes even then nothing will happen! :laugh:

The only time I could ever pee outdoors would be if I was alone on a deserted road and it was very dark outside. Needless to say I've learned to hold my pee in sometimes for hours and hours on end. :P

Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: Katie77 on October 08, 2008, 02:31:24 am
Oh I can't do that! I have a VERY shy bladder. I have problems even peeing in a public bathroom. And I can NEVER use the urinals. I have to pee in one of the toilet stalls. And sometimes even then nothing will happen! :laugh:

The only time I could ever pee outdoors would be if I was alone on a deserted road and it was very dark outside. Needless to say I've learned to hold my pee in sometimes for hours and hours on end. :P



Well David, I was going to write something humourous, but then I read your reply out to my husband, who just happened to be passing by me, and he said to tell you, that it has been medically proven, that holding in pee is NOT good for you. Apparently they did tests on a lot of cab drivers, who hold it, because of their job, and it can cause bladder problems and kidney problems.

Now that hubby has taken all the fun out of this conversation, I forgot what funny thing I was gonna say......

Oh, it was about hubby, he can pull it out and pee anywhere...... when he wants to go, he HAS to go......I remember one time we were on a suburban train in Sydney, which had no toilets, and he stood on the little bit between the carriages and had a pee.
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: David In Indy on October 08, 2008, 03:14:46 am
Well David, I was going to write something humourous, but then I read your reply out to my husband, who just happened to be passing by me, and he said to tell you, that it has been medically proven, that holding in pee is NOT good for you. Apparently they did tests on a lot of cab drivers, who hold it, because of their job, and it can cause bladder problems and kidney problems.

Now that hubby has taken all the fun out of this conversation, I forgot what funny thing I was gonna say......

Oh, it was about hubby, he can pull it out and pee anywhere...... when he wants to go, he HAS to go......I remember one time we were on a suburban train in Sydney, which had no toilets, and he stood on the little bit between the carriages and had a pee.

Oh my God Sue, how does he manage it? There's no way I could ever do that. It's not like I wish to hold it in, but if I don't have complete privacy it simply won't come out no matter how hard I try. :(

In other words, my bladder is screaming for relief but I don't have the urge to go. I'm weird aren't I? :laugh: ;)

Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: Katie77 on October 08, 2008, 03:31:40 am
Oh my God Sue, how does he manage it? There's no way I could ever do that. It's not like I wish to hold it in, but if I don't have complete privacy it simply won't come out no matter how hard I try. :(

In other words, my bladder is screaming for relief but I don't have the urge to go. I'm weird aren't I? :laugh: ;)



Welll......I wouldn't call you weird.........but I bet when Jess reads this......SHE WILL.....:o :o
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: David In Indy on October 08, 2008, 03:48:08 am
Welll......I wouldn't call you weird.........but I bet when Jess reads this......SHE WILL.....:o :o

Oh she DEFINATELY will! :laugh:

>:(  >:(

Jess! Watch it sister girl! >:(

;) ;)

Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: Katie77 on October 08, 2008, 04:04:57 am
Im not game to say anymore about Jess.........she scares me when she's HMPHHing......


(http://i151.photobucket.com/albums/s133/SarinTrax/1222714517503.gif)
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: Kelda on October 08, 2008, 05:12:06 pm
does shop cat have a name!?!
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: Katie77 on October 08, 2008, 06:39:52 pm
does shop cat have a name!?!

Yes shop cat's name is Rastus.....
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: injest on October 08, 2008, 06:50:51 pm
Welll......I wouldn't call you weird.........but I bet when Jess reads this......SHE WILL.....:o :o

HEY!!

I would LOVE to have a man around this place with a shy bladder!



I might still have my azaleas..


and why you always calling ME out!!??


What about DEV?? What? You like her better??? Why it's always ME??
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: injest on October 08, 2008, 06:52:06 pm
Oh she DEFINATELY will! :laugh:

>:(  >:(

Jess! Watch it sister girl! >:(

;) ;)



oh FINE!!

Everyone dogpile on ME!! that's fine! won't be the first, won't be the last...I am used to it....


*sniff*
















*looks around to see if anyone is buying the pity party routine*
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: Katie77 on October 08, 2008, 06:58:00 pm
oh FINE!!

Everyone dogpile on ME!! that's fine! won't be the first, won't be the last...I am used to it....


*sniff*
















*looks around to see if anyone is buying the pity party routine*

NOPE.... iI'm not buying it...........I'm still giggling about the azaleas.....
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: injest on October 08, 2008, 07:00:03 pm
NOPE.... iI'm not buying it...........I'm still giggling about the azaleas.....

I already bored everyone with THAT story....
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: Katie77 on October 08, 2008, 07:18:48 pm
I already bored everyone with THAT story....

Actually now you mention it, I do remember reading about them......
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: CellarDweller on October 08, 2008, 09:30:02 pm
*looks around to see if anyone is buying the pity party routine*


*grabs menu, calls over to Jess*


"Pity....party of one.....your table is ready...."



 ;) :laugh:
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: injest on October 08, 2008, 09:42:16 pm

*grabs menu, calls over to Jess*


"Pity....party of one.....your table is ready...."



 ;) :laugh:

I hope I dont' get seated by the kitchen again!  >:( >:( >:(


*stomps over*
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: Katie77 on October 09, 2008, 06:14:09 am
Found this pic in my photobucket archives.......

 It is a naked mole rat


(http://i220.photobucket.com/albums/dd7/suekat777/NAKEDMOLERAT.jpg)
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: CellarDweller on October 09, 2008, 10:56:40 am
I hope I dont' get seated by the kitchen again!  >:( >:( >:(


*stomps over*


*escorts Jess over to a table by the fireplace.*
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: Katie77 on November 21, 2008, 08:20:04 pm
I posted these over on Dev's blog, but thought I would put them here too.

I have a friend visiting from America, who I met online playing poker.

Here is a couple of little one minute videos I have taken recently.

The first one is with our pet blue tongue lizards taken the other day......and just a side note to that, I went down in the garage this morning where they live in a huge tank, and found a baby blue tongue, but unfortunately it was dead. I rang my son, who is the original owner, and he told me that last time the female gave birth, she had seven over a couple of days, so now we are waiting to see if we get any more.

Anyway here is the vid of my friend holding the one of the blue tongues.

The second vid, was taken the other day, when we went to a little animal sanctuary down the road from our place.

(http://i220.photobucket.com/albums/dd7/suekat777/th_IMGP0519.jpg) (http://s220.photobucket.com/albums/dd7/suekat777/?action=view&current=IMGP0519.flv)

(http://i220.photobucket.com/albums/dd7/suekat777/th_IMGP0637.jpg) (http://s220.photobucket.com/albums/dd7/suekat777/?action=view&current=IMGP0637.flv)

Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: Katie77 on December 05, 2008, 06:35:50 pm
To you dog lovers!   


   IF I DIDN'T HAVE A DOG..........

 




I could walk around the yard barefoot and in safety.

My house could be carpeted instead of tiled and laminated.

All flat surfaces, clothing, furniture, and cars would be free of hair.   



 

When the doorbell rang, it wouldn't sound like a kennel and I could get to the door without wading through fuzzy bodies who beat me there.

 

I could sit on the couch and my bed the way I wanted, without taking into consideration how much space several fur bodies would need to get comfortable.

 

I would have money. . . .  and no guilt to go on a real vacation.

 

I would not be on a first-name basis with 6 veterinarians, as I put their yet unborn grandkids through college. 



 

The most used words in my vocabulary would not be: out, sit, down, come, no, stay, and leave him/her/it alone.


My house would not be cordoned off into zones with baby gates or barriers.

My house would not look like a day care center, toys everywhere.

My pockets would not contain things like poop bags, treats and an extra leash.

 

   

I would no longer have to spell the words  B-A-L-L,  F-R-I-S-B-E-E,  W-A-L-K,  T-R-E-A-T,  B-I-K-E,  G-O, and R-I-D-E

I would not have as many leaves inside my house as outside.

 

I would not look strangely at people who think having one dog/cat ties them down too much.

I'd look forward to spring and the rainy season instead of dreading 'mud' season. 



 

I would not have to answer the question 'Why do you have so many animals?' from people who will never have the joy in their lives of knowing they are loved unconditionally by someone as close to an angel as they will ever get.

How empty my life would be!



 


 
 


Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: injest on December 06, 2008, 12:57:07 am
hey, someone that knows Spanish...tell me what happens in this video ok? Did the dog make it?

http://www.liveleak.com/view?i=774_1228266264 (http://www.liveleak.com/view?i=774_1228266264)

David, I know you can't see it..but this dog gets run over and another dog ran out and pulled it off the road! He rescued the other dog!
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: Katie77 on December 06, 2008, 01:29:04 am
hey, someone that knows Spanish...tell me what happens in this video ok? Did the dog make it?

http://www.liveleak.com/view?i=774_1228266264 (http://www.liveleak.com/view?i=774_1228266264)

David, I know you can't see it..but this dog gets run over and another dog ran out and pulled it off the road! He rescued the other dog!

Oh God I hope it survived......that is so so sad.
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: Kelda on December 06, 2008, 05:56:36 am
hey, someone that knows Spanish...tell me what happens in this video ok? Did the dog make it?

http://www.liveleak.com/view?i=774_1228266264 (http://www.liveleak.com/view?i=774_1228266264)

David, I know you can't see it..but this dog gets run over and another dog ran out and pulled it off the road! He rescued the other dog!

OMG - thats amazing  :'(


I'd like to know too..
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: Kerry on December 06, 2008, 07:57:52 am
Poor, poor, little doggie. He looks like a gonner, to me.  :'(

But how heroic of that other dog to rescue him.   :)
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: injest on December 06, 2008, 09:37:54 am
I posted these over on Dev's blog, but thought I would put them here too.

I have a friend visiting from America, who I met online playing poker.

Here is a couple of little one minute videos I have taken recently.

The first one is with our pet blue tongue lizards taken the other day......and just a side note to that, I went down in the garage this morning where they live in a huge tank, and found a baby blue tongue, but unfortunately it was dead. I rang my son, who is the original owner, and he told me that last time the female gave birth, she had seven over a couple of days, so now we are waiting to see if we get any more.

Anyway here is the vid of my friend holding the one of the blue tongues.

The second vid, was taken the other day, when we went to a little animal sanctuary down the road from our place.



cute vids!!
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: Shasta542 on December 06, 2008, 09:55:05 am
To you dog lovers!   


   IF I DIDN'T HAVE A DOG..........

I could walk around the yard barefoot and in safety.

My house could be carpeted instead of tiled and laminated.

All flat surfaces, clothing, furniture, and cars would be free of hair.   

When the doorbell rang, it wouldn't sound like a kennel and I could get to the door without wading through fuzzy bodies who beat me there.

I could sit on the couch and my bed the way I wanted, without taking into consideration how much space several fur bodies would need to get comfortable.

I would have money. . . .  and no guilt to go on a real vacation.
 
I would not be on a first-name basis with 6 veterinarians, as I put their yet unborn grandkids through college. 

The most used words in my vocabulary would not be: out, sit, down, come, no, stay, and leave him/her/it alone.

My house would not be cordoned off into zones with baby gates or barriers.

My house would not look like a day care center, toys everywhere.

My pockets would not contain things like poop bags, treats and an extra leash.

I would no longer have to spell the words  B-A-L-L,  F-R-I-S-B-E-E,  W-A-L-K,  T-R-E-A-T,  B-I-K-E,  G-O, and R-I-D-E

I would not have as many leaves inside my house as outside.

I would not look strangely at people who think having one dog/cat ties them down too much.

I'd look forward to spring and the rainy season instead of dreading 'mud' season. 

I would not have to answer the question 'Why do you have so many animals?' from people who will never have the joy in their lives of knowing they are loved unconditionally by someone as close to an angel as they will ever get.

How empty my life would be!


This is a witness to my life! LOL.

Very nice, Katie77! :)
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: Artiste on December 06, 2008, 10:50:50 am
Wow !


Bonne journée !

More please...

au revoir,
hugs!
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: BelAir on January 09, 2009, 07:39:01 pm
From Walt Whitman:

I think I could turn and live with animals, they are so placid and self-contain'd,
I stand and look at them long and long.

They do not sweat and whine about their condition,
They do not lie awake in the dark and weep for their sins,
They do not make me sick discussing their duty to God,
Not one is dissatisfied, not one is demented with the mania of owning things,
Not one kneels to another, nor to his kind that lived thousands of years ago,
Not one is respectable or unhappy over the whole earth.



(Interesting, I thought.)
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: Anya_Angie on January 16, 2009, 02:34:48 pm
I have a cute cat, I'm told she is yellow in color, part Purrsian, named Malenkaya, which is Russian for "little cat." Of course she is not really little LOL but she's my baby and I love her. She is shy around strangers, always hides under the bed when they come. She will only come out with me, and sometimes for my aide Jeanie, but that's not for very long. She also HATES the outdoors, she will cling to the door frame if you try to take her out, and then she will reach over and slam the door shut (no joke LOL). She can't stand my stepfather, will bite and hiss and try to scratch him with her declawed front paws, it's rather funny to see.

Here's some videos of her...
playing with her favorite toy


just me showing her


Sorry that I don't have any sound on these.
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: Kelda on January 16, 2009, 06:12:49 pm
Hey Anya! Lovely to see you!
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: Shasta542 on January 16, 2009, 06:59:01 pm
Malenkaya is very beautiful, Anya Angie. Her fur looks nice and thick.
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: Anya_Angie on January 17, 2009, 01:35:11 pm
Thanks for the welcome and the comments, guys. It's been a while but I assure you I've never really left you. It's great to be back.

Malenkaya snuggled with me last night keeping me warm on the coldest night of the year, just purring away with her paws around my arm LOL. She's funny and sweet like that.
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: BelAir on January 18, 2009, 10:06:15 pm
Thanks for the welcome and the comments, guys. It's been a while but I assure you I've never really left you. It's great to be back.

Malenkaya snuggled with me last night keeping me warm on the coldest night of the year, just purring away with her paws around my arm LOL. She's funny and sweet like that.

I'm glad you have a kittie to keep you warm Anya.

 :)

I've always thought people that don't like cats simply haven't known them.

 ;D
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: CellarDweller on January 18, 2009, 11:16:02 pm
I have the day off tomorrow, so am I doing something cool tonight?

No.

I have one of those shelves that attach to the window, for the cat to sit on.  I've removed the cover, and washing it, so Blaze has a clean bed.


I lead such an exciting life.

 :laugh:
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: Katie77 on January 19, 2009, 02:45:25 am
I have the day off tomorrow, so am I doing something cool tonight?

No.

I have one of those shelves that attach to the window, for the cat to sit on.  I've removed the cover, and washing it, so Blaze has a clean bed.


I lead such an exciting life.

 :laugh:

You're such a sweetie, thats why I like you so much.

I'm here at my brother in law's place, as you know, and they have a dog and a bird, who treat me like part of the family now. I'm gonna miss them when I go home, and I'm worried that they will miss me too.

Dont you just love how animals accept you into their lives, they dont ask for much, just some talking to them, and a feed...and they give so much back in return.
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: Anya_Angie on January 19, 2009, 03:28:10 am
Oh I know. Whenever I go away to my father's or some other relative's for the weekend, I have no choice ut to leave Malenkaya behind. When I pack my suitcase, I always find her lying either on top of it, or in it, looking at me and swishing her tail back and forth. When it comes time for me to actually leave, she is always under the bed LOL she will not even come out to say goodbye.

If that's not silly/sad enough, when I come back, she meows in such a sad way, and lays on my suitcase again, swishing her tail and staring at me LOL!
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: Kelda on January 19, 2009, 04:40:58 pm
Oh I know. Whenever I go away to my father's or some other relative's for the weekend, I have no choice ut to leave Malenkaya behind. When I pack my suitcase, I always find her lying either on top of it, or in it, looking at me and swishing her tail back and forth. When it comes time for me to actually leave, she is always under the bed LOL she will not even come out to say goodbye.

If that's not silly/sad enough, when I come back, she meows in such a sad way, and lays on my suitcase again, swishing her tail and staring at me LOL!

sounds like my cat!
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: CellarDweller on January 19, 2009, 08:00:16 pm
I'm so pissed at Blaze right now!

He just came into the basement, and I realized I hadn't picked him up in a while.

So I bent over and picked him up, and hugged him.


;D



So why did he decided that this was the perfect time to fart?

:o

How such a big nasty smell can come out of a little cat is beyond me!
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: Shasta542 on January 19, 2009, 08:10:18 pm
I'm so pissed at Blaze right now!

He just came into the basement, and I realized I hadn't picked him up in a while.

So I bent over and picked him up, and hugged him.


;D



So why did he decided that this was the perfect time to fart?

:o

How such a big nasty smell can come out of a little cat is beyond me!

Dude--you squished it out of him when you hugged him! It wasn't his fault. Poor kitty!!!!  :P 8) ::) ;D
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: Shasta542 on February 21, 2009, 09:59:22 pm
Nicki and I ran errands today--it was cold and rainy so she wore her coat that her Aunt Kay gave her for Christmas! She wouldn't look at me. None of my dogs like to wear clothes too much.  :-\ :P ;)

(http://i183.photobucket.com/albums/x221/Shasta542/WINTER08-E009.jpg)
(http://i183.photobucket.com/albums/x221/Shasta542/WINTER08-E011.jpg)
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: Kelda on March 03, 2009, 06:56:32 pm
OMG SOOOOO CUTE!!!!!!!  :D
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: Shasta542 on March 03, 2009, 08:34:47 pm
OMG SOOOOO CUTE!!!!!!!  :D

Thank you!  ;D :-*  She's my little buddy!  ;)
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: Shasta542 on March 17, 2009, 01:06:07 pm
Here's my BUMP for the BUMP-FEST!! I love to look at the Brokie's pets or anyone else's for that matter. Somebody -- post your puppies!! :) Or kitties, horses, hamsters, fish, snakes, birds, etc. I saw Dev's dogs on her blog---they are sweet-looking--all 4 of them! Even if you've posted them before---go ahead. It has probably been awhile since we've seen them!  ;D

Here's Brooks in the snow. My dogs enjoyed the snow, but they had to come in after they played awhile!

(http://i183.photobucket.com/albums/x221/Shasta542/WINTER08-F029.jpg)
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: delalluvia on March 29, 2009, 01:37:33 pm

My cats (unhappily but very patiently) dressed in their celebration season finery:

Kabuki

(http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v728/Jovieve/kabuki.jpg)

Kenobi


(http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v728/Jovieve/kenobi.jpg)
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: Shasta542 on March 29, 2009, 01:53:23 pm
Kabuki and Kenobi look so cute!!! I expect they were more than happy to shed their finery, tho!!  :P ;)

Thanks for posting, dellaluvia! I love cats.  :)
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: Kelda on March 29, 2009, 01:55:06 pm
AWWW!!!
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: delalluvia on March 29, 2009, 02:23:19 pm
Thanks, guys.  ;D  I'd post a lot more, but I don't own a camera, so I have to wait for someone I know who does own one to take pictures, then borrow their camera and mooch off the back of their memory chip.

I love animal pics too.  It's funny Nicki wouldn't look at you Shasta.  Mad at you, probably.  When dressed up, my cats look at me all the time - hopefully.  Hoping I'll take the stuff off 'em.  ;D
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: loneleeb3 on March 29, 2009, 08:27:47 pm
Here's Emmy our farm kitty and mouser extrordinaire!
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: delalluvia on March 29, 2009, 08:33:43 pm
Boy, she looks formidable!  :)
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: CellarDweller on April 23, 2009, 07:39:01 pm
awwww......cute pics of the kitties!
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: CellarDweller on May 19, 2009, 06:16:03 pm
Hiya Pet lovers......I need some help.

My family has a cat named Blaze.....he'll be with us for a year in June.

If he makes it that long here.

 ::)

When we got him as a kitten, he was easily trained to use the litter box.  No accidents anywhere. 

In Feb of this year, he had a bout of diarrhea.  We took him to the vet for a shot, and it seemed to be fine.  However, as time goes on, the diarrhea is becomming more frequent, and he can't get to the litter box.  We've taken him to the vet for tests, worms came back negative.

The vet said it could be colitis.  He gave us special food about a week ago.  It hasn't helped, and the diarrhea is still here.  Each morning is a sick treasure hunt of where he releaved himself.

On Thursday he has an appointment for x-rays and bloodwork.  Needless to say, this is getting expensive, and we are concerned for Blaze's health.

Has anyone else had to deal with this issue?  Any advice?
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: Shasta542 on May 19, 2009, 08:15:43 pm
I had a kitten (who did grow to be an adult) who had so much diarrhea that I thought he'd surely die. I took him several times to the vet before we got rid of it. I kept him contained in one of the bathrooms and he had a litter box, but I also put down piddle pads because he didn't always make it into the litter box. I had to give him a bath every day and he lost hair on both sides of his head, but he had it down the center so it looked like a mohawk.

That has been several years ago, and I can't remember the name, but it was a bacteria in his intestines. It lasted over a month.

Don't give him any milk. He may have an allergy.


{{{{{{{{{{BLAZE}}}}}}}}}}
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: Kelda on May 20, 2009, 04:11:56 am
poor little blaze - I hope you find out whats wrong..
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: Katie77 on May 26, 2009, 05:12:07 pm
This is amazing.........

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Wso13n4kHZ4 (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Wso13n4kHZ4)
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: Shasta542 on May 26, 2009, 06:17:57 pm
Nice video, Katie77. The guy is braver than I am. I'd like to pet a lion, but I'd be too afraid.
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: delalluvia on May 26, 2009, 07:59:03 pm
Hiya Pet lovers......I need some help.

My family has a cat named Blaze.....he'll be with us for a year in June.

If he makes it that long here.

 ::)

When we got him as a kitten, he was easily trained to use the litter box.  No accidents anywhere. 

In Feb of this year, he had a bout of diarrhea.  We took him to the vet for a shot, and it seemed to be fine.  However, as time goes on, the diarrhea is becomming more frequent, and he can't get to the litter box.  We've taken him to the vet for tests, worms came back negative.

The vet said it could be colitis.  He gave us special food about a week ago.  It hasn't helped, and the diarrhea is still here.  Each morning is a sick treasure hunt of where he releaved himself.

On Thursday he has an appointment for x-rays and bloodwork.  Needless to say, this is getting expensive, and we are concerned for Blaze's health.

Has anyone else had to deal with this issue?  Any advice?

Poor kitty.  No, never had this problem with my cats.  But isolating the poor thing so you don't have to clean up sounds like a good idea while they try to figure out what the problem is.
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: CellarDweller on May 29, 2009, 07:15:02 am
Hiya guys!

Just wanted to give an update on Blaze.

Vet called Tuesday, and said that his blood tests were normal.  The x-rays however, seem to indicate Blaze has Irritable Bowel Syndrome.  We at least now have a diagnosis about what the problem is.

The vet has suggested that we bring Blaze back for an endoscopy (I think that's how it's spelled) and try new food.  Mom is up for the new food, however, Blaze hates the vet, and she thinks he's been there too much in recent times, and that it would only further traumatize him, so we're going to see what managing his diet entails, and how he responds.

We've added an extra litter box on the 2nd floor, and for the past 3 days, and limited his food intake to certain times of the day, instead of leaving food for him to munch on all day.

For the past 3 days, there have been no accidents.
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: Shasta542 on May 29, 2009, 07:19:38 am
Good news about Blaze!

Thanks for the update.  :)
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: Katie77 on May 29, 2009, 07:24:49 am
Great news about Blaze, Chucky.

The three meals a day is by far a better idea than letting him graze all day. I remember a vet telling me, the best way to feed dogs and cats, was to give them their bowl of food, and leave it there for fifteen minutes, then take it away. Doing that three times a day, he should only need to do his business three times.

Poor little bloke, he's probably had tummy pain too.
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: Penthesilea on May 29, 2009, 07:47:48 am
Hiya guys!

Just wanted to give an update on Blaze.

Vet called Tuesday, and said that his blood tests were normal.  The x-rays however, seem to indicate Blaze has Irritable Bowel Syndrome.  We at least now have a diagnosis about what the problem is.

The vet has suggested that we bring Blaze back for an endoscopy (I think that's how it's spelled) and try new food.  Mom is up for the new food, however, Blaze hates the vet, and she thinks he's been there too much in recent times, and that it would only further traumatize him, so we're going to see what managing his diet entails, and how he responds.

We've added an extra litter box on the 2nd floor, and for the past 3 days, and limited his food intake to certain times of the day, instead of leaving food for him to munch on all day.

For the past 3 days, there have been no accidents.


Poor Blaze! And your poor family. Ewww, how horrible to find accidents almost every morning.
We went through the same for many months with our dog when we got him. We tried different dogfoods, it was a little better with some and worse with others, but never really gone.

Until we tried Josera. That's a dogfood which doesn't contain any wheat at all. In our case, that was the cure. We're feeding Josera for almost 8 years now and never had problems again.

I guess that won't help in your case, but I wrote it to show you not to give up. Continue with the limitation of food intake (I think it's a bad habit anyway, it produces picky/spoiled eaters).

I just see Sue's post in preview.
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: Katie77 on May 29, 2009, 08:00:43 pm
My husband and I, sat and watched the movie Marley and Me yesterday.

I had seen it at the movie theatre, on my own, early in the year, when he was in hospital, and I knew he would feel the same things I felt as we watched it.

We had a dog, some years back, who was so much like Marley. His name was Billy. He was a jet black Kelpie cross. From the day we got him, he was trouble.We didn't find him, he found us, he wandered into our yard when he was about 6 months old, obviously a stray. He was with us, for the next 15 years.

We had six foot high paling fences around our back yard and a 6ft high side gate, but oh no, that didn't keep him in. Eventually, that six foot fence, had another two feet of barbed wired installed on top of it, and the side gate had a slab of concrete under it, so he could not dig under it any more. NO....that didn't keep him in either, he had scars all over his belly from where he used to climb over the barbed wire to get out.We eventually took it down.

We both worked at the time, and the kids were going to school. Billy often turned up at my son Adam's school, but he also must have had many other friends in the neighbourhood. We were at the supermarket one day, and a complete stranger stopped us, and said, "you must be Billy's mother and father".....apparently they lived a few streets from us, and Billy was a regular visitor.

We eventually moved to a new area only 5 miles from our previous place, but my son stayed at the same school. Now he had to get a bus to the school. He would leave Billy at home, and get the bus, but by the time he got to school, Billy was there waiting for him. He had a short cut to get there.

We bought a fruit shop, in the town centre another 5 miles from home (different direction to the school), and made the mistake of taking Billy down there one time, from then on, he would turn up there at any time of the day, lie accross the front door of the shop, so people had to step over him to get in the shop. Everyone knew him, everyone loved him.

There was a cab rank near our shop, and the cab drivers got to know him. Several times, over the years, when Billy went walkabout, and we couldn't find him, we would ring the cabbies, to keep an eye out for him, and many times Billy was brought home in a cab. We found him one time at a gas station miles from where we lived, and found out from the owner, that Billy used to visit there often, and would get fed a meat pie, before he was on his way again.

Over the years, we sold the fruit shop, but we learned that he still made regular visits there. There was a train station up the road from where we lived, and the next stop from us, was over the road from the fruit shop. We were infomed by the station master near the shop, that he had often seen Billy alight from the train, and then head over to the shop.

Billy was just one of those dogs that needed to be out all day. The thing was, that most of the time, he was there at home when we left for work, and sitting there on the doorstep when we got home, but we will never know exactly all the places he went to, nor all the friends he made.

Oh, he got hit by a car one time, and he got through that,after 14 days in the vet hospital, and he was attacked by another dog one time, and got through that. He chewed the pool liner, he chewed clothes on the line, he dug holes under the fence, he chewed through an electric chord one time, he left scratch marks on the doors, he even ate the inside of the laundry door one time, when he was locked in there accidently, he loved to raid garbage bins...oh I can still picture many times, driving down the street on garbage morning, and seeing all the bins knocked over and rubbish everywhere. (that was when we still had those small rubbish bins). I knew Billy was probably responsible.

Oh the dog catcher tried to get him quite a few times, but only once do I recall, having to bail him out of the pound. The dog catcher called to our home one time, and Billy was sitting there with us, as innocent as the driven snow, and the dog catcher said, "he's too clever for me".....

We had never heard of him biting or hurting anyone ever. He had a gentle nature, without a mean bone in his body..........oh, I forgot.....the postman.....well, Billy did used to run out at him and try to bite the tyres on his motor scooter, until eventually, we stopped getting our mail delivered, and had to pick it up at the post office. But he was the only one I knew, that Billy didn't like.

Now, it may seem irresponsible that he was allowed to roam the streets, but it was impossible to contain him, the only way we could have, was to chain him up, which i would never do. Also, the area we lived, was not your usual suburban area, we were in the Blue Mountains, west of Sydney, and most of the houses backed onto bushland, and so did not have back fences. Billy obviously knew all the tracks in the bush, to get from one street to another, and we spent a lot of time with him and the kids going on bush walks.

He slept on Adam's bed every night, so we knew he was not out wandering in the dark. On weekends he was happy to stay home with us, and used to love coming to the kids soccer games, where he would again, be greeted by everyone there.

Anyway, when the time came, we kept putting it off. He was over 15 and had a stroke, and altough he surivived, his back legs were useless. For a week, my hubby, carried him down to the back yard so he could do his business, until finally we knew, we had to let him go.  The kids were now adults, both married by then, we called them, and told them we had called the vet, and he was coming to the house. We all gathered, we all cried, we all gave him our hugs and we talked to him and thanked him for being our friend.And like John Grogan, we told him to forget what we used to say about him being a "bad dog"....he was the BEST dog, the best dog ever. It was one of the worst days I can remember.

We buried him in the back yard. About 18 months later, we moved to a property. It was decided that Billy would come with us. Adam removed him from his grave, and the first thing we did when we arrived at the property was to make another grave for him, where he still lies. He would have loved it there, hills, and creeks, and plenty of space. But as any animal lover knows, it doesn't really matter where he is buried, he is in our heart, will be forever, in our memories, oh so so many of them, and we know how fortunate we were that he chose us, to share his life with.

And, when we have looked back at when he first strayed into our yard, we have often thought, that maybe he was just visiting us, like he obviously was in the habit of doing. Maybe we were just another stop on his travels that day, maybe thats why he tried so hard to get out of the yard. We will never know. We claimed him. He was our Billy.


 
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: Shasta542 on May 29, 2009, 08:41:40 pm
 :'( :'( :'(

That is a wonderful story, Katie77--about a member of your family. You should write a short story for Readers' Digest or a book about him.  
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: delalluvia on May 29, 2009, 09:47:20 pm
Thanks for the update on Blaze!  Good news  :)
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: Kelda on May 30, 2009, 11:24:00 am
yes thats a great story Sue,
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: Shasta542 on May 31, 2009, 04:57:37 am
Here's a trivia quiz on animal movies:

http://encarta.msn.com/quiz_263/animal_movie_trivia_quiz.html?Gt1=24000 (http://encarta.msn.com/quiz_263/animal_movie_trivia_quiz.html?Gt1=24000)
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: Fran on May 31, 2009, 08:46:13 am
Hiya Pet lovers......I need some help.

My family has a cat named Blaze.....he'll be with us for a year in June.

If he makes it that long here.

 ::)

When we got him as a kitten, he was easily trained to use the litter box.  No accidents anywhere. 

In Feb of this year, he had a bout of diarrhea.  We took him to the vet for a shot, and it seemed to be fine.  However, as time goes on, the diarrhea is becomming more frequent, and he can't get to the litter box.  We've taken him to the vet for tests, worms came back negative.

The vet said it could be colitis.  He gave us special food about a week ago.  It hasn't helped, and the diarrhea is still here.  Each morning is a sick treasure hunt of where he releaved himself.

On Thursday he has an appointment for x-rays and bloodwork.  Needless to say, this is getting expensive, and we are concerned for Blaze's health.

Has anyone else had to deal with this issue?  Any advice?

Chuck, my now-12-year-old whippet Madison was diagnosed with Irritable Bowel Disease about three years ago.  While it's different than IBS, I think there are many similarities.  BTW, Madison was diagnosed without an endoscopy (after we had spent a small fortune on X rays and other tests, including an MRI of her brain -- but that's a whole other story).

The steroid prednisone was/is Madison's lifesaver.  She was on it for quite a while, but now we only use it to get her back on track after she's had a flareup of her IBD.  Oh, and she does get half a regular-strength Pepcid AD tablet each night before she goes to bed to control her stomach acid which tends to build up overnight.  (The signs of that are a gurgly stomach -- the tummy rumbles.)

I think you'll be able to get Blaze's IBS under control with some dietary changes.  Right now Madison's food is Hill's Prescription Diet z/d Ultra canine.  (They also make a feline version, I see.)  It's a highly digestible food which is allergen-free.  It's the only food that Madison is allowed to eat except for the little bit of American cheese we wrap her pills in (or use to entice her to eat her food).  If she accidentally eats table food, we pay the price because it brings on diarrhea and we have to start up the prednisone regimen again.  With dogs anyway, prednisone causes increased urination, but maybe that's not as big a deal for cats since they always have access to a litter box.

I found the Internet a great resource when Madison was first diagnosed.  I even joined a Yahoo group for dogs with digestive issues.  Maybe you can find one for cats.  I regret that Madison wasn't diagnosed earlier because she had always seemed to have a sensitive stomach and frequent bouts of diarrhea. 

Here's a photo of Madison (reposted from earlier in this thread):

(http://i198.photobucket.com/albums/aa188/ffrraann/DSC01971.jpg)


Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: CellarDweller on May 31, 2009, 09:59:35 am
Thanks for the reply, Fran.

The vet now seems to think it's IBS instead of colitis.  He said some of the symptons for colitis were missing.

5 days with no accidents.
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: Fran on May 31, 2009, 12:29:48 pm
Thanks for the reply, Fran.

The vet now seems to think it's IBS instead of colitis.  He said some of the symptons for colitis were missing.

5 days with no accidents.

Great news! 

(Hope you didn't just jinx yourself.)   ;)
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: Shasta542 on June 11, 2009, 10:21:16 am
Here is a story I read about a lady's pet dog---it's sad:

http://lifestyle.msn.com/your-life/bigger-picture/articleoprah.aspx?cp-documentid=20042197&gt1=32001 (http://lifestyle.msn.com/your-life/bigger-picture/articleoprah.aspx?cp-documentid=20042197&gt1=32001)
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: Kelda on June 11, 2009, 11:20:36 am
Here is a story I read about a lady's pet dog---it's sad:

http://lifestyle.msn.com/your-life/bigger-picture/articleoprah.aspx?cp-documentid=20042197&gt1=32001 (http://lifestyle.msn.com/your-life/bigger-picture/articleoprah.aspx?cp-documentid=20042197&gt1=32001)

 :'(
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: CellarDweller on June 11, 2009, 02:51:17 pm
(Hope you didn't just jinx yourself.)   ;)


Nope....it's been an additional 11 days, and no more accidents.  ;D
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: Kelda on June 11, 2009, 05:36:52 pm
My kitty cat, and my mum's new(ish) pup, Lundie and my sisters 'pup' who is just over a year old, Bracken. Both are Jack Russels.

Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: Shasta542 on June 11, 2009, 06:12:37 pm
Lundie, Bracken, and the kitty are very cute! Do they all three get along? Are the dogs related?

What is your cat's name, Kelda?
 
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: Kelda on June 11, 2009, 06:22:57 pm
My cat is called Skimble..... as in Skimbleshanks the Railway Cat from Cats!

And no.. they don't get on! The cat hid for the whole week we were looking after them! Or glared at them from the top of the stairs! Bracken chased after him when he saw him, and almost gave the cat a heart attack! Had it just been Lundie I think they may have got on by the end of the week.. as she's no where near as hyper as Bracken!!

The doggies aint related but they look it dont they!?! The wee one has a smooth coat though - the big one has a more rough coat.
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: Shasta542 on June 11, 2009, 06:50:25 pm
My cat is called Skimble..... as in Skimbleshanks the Railway Cat from Cats!

And no.. they don't get on! The cat hid for the whole week we were looking after them! Or glared at them from the top of the stairs! Bracken chased after him when he saw him, and almost gave the cat a heart attack! Had it just been Lundie I think they may have got on by the end of the week.. as she's no where near as hyper as Bracken!!

The doggies aint related but they look it dont they!?! The wee one has a smooth coat though - the big one has a more rough coat.

Forgetful me!  :P  I remember you telling me about Skimble's name now---that is one of my favorite musicals.   

Yes--they do look a lot alike with their coloring and markings.

That was nice of you to babysit. Sounds like Skimble was happy when it was time for them to go home.  ;)
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: Kelda on June 11, 2009, 06:55:26 pm
Forgetful me!  :P  I remember you telling me about Skimble's name now---that is one of my favorite musicals.   

Yes--they do look a lot alike with their coloring and markings.

That was nice of you to babysit. Sounds like Skimble was happy when it was time for them to go home.  ;)


Heh, yup, plus it helped that he got spolilt rotten to compensate! I'm sure he put on a few pounds following their visit!
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives - Sayif, one year ago..
Post by: j.U.d.E. on June 12, 2009, 02:03:26 pm
:'(  :'(  One year ago today.... SAYIF died...   :'(  :'(

(http://i265.photobucket.com/albums/ii229/_jUdE_W/CATS/DSC07275.jpg)

(http://i265.photobucket.com/albums/ii229/_jUdE_W/CATS/DSC09239_BM.jpg)

I had to share..

j.U.d.E.
[it's the first time in a year, that I look at pictures of him....]
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives - Sayif, one year ago..
Post by: Kelda on June 12, 2009, 02:11:17 pm
:'(  :'(  One year ago today.... SAYIF died...   :'(  :'(

(http://i265.photobucket.com/albums/ii229/_jUdE_W/CATS/DSC07275.jpg)

(http://i265.photobucket.com/albums/ii229/_jUdE_W/CATS/DSC09239_BM.jpg)

I had to share..

j.U.d.E.
[it's the first time in a year, that I look at pictures of him....]


Awww.. hunny.. you'll be okay... poor Sayif.. she had a lovely home for her after you took her in - don't feel bad.

How is my fave Belgian can Brokie these days?

Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: Shasta542 on June 12, 2009, 02:11:29 pm
{{{{{{{{{{j.U.d.E.}}}}}}}}}}

He is beautiful.

How is Brokie doing?
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: j.U.d.E. on June 12, 2009, 03:19:40 pm
So sweet guys! Thank you!

Brokie is doing fine! Looking at Sayif's pictures now, I'm troubled by how much Brokie looks like him. It's as if over the last year, she has morphed into him.. She has a rounder face, but ithe eyes..  :)

This is Brokie from about half an hour ago:

(http://i265.photobucket.com/albums/ii229/_jUdE_W/Brokie12June2009-01.jpg)

(http://i265.photobucket.com/albums/ii229/_jUdE_W/Brokie12June2009-02.jpg)

(http://i265.photobucket.com/albums/ii229/_jUdE_W/Brokie12June2009-05.jpg)

(http://i265.photobucket.com/albums/ii229/_jUdE_W/Brokie12June2009-04.jpg)
[Yaaaaawn...]

Kelda, I hope your little kitty is doing fine!

j.U.d.E.
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: Shasta542 on June 12, 2009, 03:28:27 pm
You take great pictures.

Brokie and Sayif are very much alike. (She is his mother, right?)

Brokie is so pretty--and I love the one of her yawning.  :)
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: Kelda on June 12, 2009, 03:40:44 pm
God damn it Jude, you are sooooo good at taking photos of that cat! You should do some professional photography on the side....
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: CellarDweller on June 21, 2009, 08:45:58 pm
very cool pics of Brokie!
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: ifyoucantfixit on June 21, 2009, 09:44:21 pm



        Bless your sad heart.   Just remember you will be together sometime.  Again.    For ever and ever.
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: CellarDweller on June 22, 2009, 02:34:21 pm
I need to get more pics of Blaze and put them up.
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: Kelda on July 30, 2009, 05:58:16 pm
MIEOWWW!!!

Go watch he video at: http://news.bbc.co.uk/1/hi/england/devon/8174850.stm

Commuter cat is star of bus route


A cat has become such a well-known user of a Devon bus service that its drivers know where to let him off.

Casper has been queuing with other passengers to get the number three service from his home in Plymouth for months, bus company First said.

It added that he often sat in the queue and then quietly padded on board and curled up on a seat for the ride.

Casper's owner Susan Finden, 55, who picked him from a rescue home in 2002, said he had always been a free spirit.

Mrs Finden said she named her pet after Casper the Friendly Ghost, as he has a habit of wandering off.

“ I don't know what the attraction is but he loves big vehicles like lorries and buses ”
Owner Susan Finden

A spokesman for First said that drivers had been bussing Casper around for months, but Mrs Finden said she had only just found out about his use of public transport.

The care worker said: "He'd always go off and have a wander.

"Once I had to walk a mile-and-a-half with a cat basket to bring him back from a car park.

"He does love people, and I don't know what the attraction is but he loves big vehicles like lorries and buses."

A notice has been put up by First in the bus drivers' rest room in Plymouth bus station asking them to look after the rogue passenger if they spot him sneaking on board.
Story from BBC NEWS:
http://news.bbc.co.uk/go/pr/fr/-/1/hi/england/devon/8174850.stm

Published: 2009/07/29 13:25:59 GMT
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: Shasta542 on July 30, 2009, 06:20:18 pm
LOL. That is very cute. He must be a smart cat--he's pretty too.
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: Kelda on July 30, 2009, 06:22:00 pm
yeah I know!! how clever of him to know where to get on and off and what bus to get, eh!?!
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives - Sayif, one year ago..
Post by: delalluvia on July 30, 2009, 06:46:56 pm
:'(  :'(  One year ago today.... SAYIF died...   :'(  :'(

(http://i265.photobucket.com/albums/ii229/_jUdE_W/CATS/DSC07275.jpg)

(http://i265.photobucket.com/albums/ii229/_jUdE_W/CATS/DSC09239_BM.jpg)

I had to share..

j.U.d.E.
[it's the first time in a year, that I look at pictures of him....]

I'm so sorry I'm late in offering my condolences j.u.d.e.. :(

It's very hard to lose them.  :'(

Wishing you well and good memories of your Sayif.
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: Shasta542 on July 30, 2009, 08:18:57 pm
Here's my little Yorkie--sleeping by the computer desk, waiting for me to get off and throw her toys for her to retrieve. She thinks she's a lab.  :P 8) :)

(http://i183.photobucket.com/albums/x221/Shasta542/COOLJULY09001.jpg)
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: Kelda on July 31, 2009, 03:40:41 am
She thinks she's a lab.  :P 8) :)


 :laugh:
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: delalluvia on July 31, 2009, 12:58:36 pm
All the Yorkies I've met, think they're lions.  ;D

They certainly have the heart of lions.
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: Shasta542 on August 06, 2009, 12:52:30 am
Some of you may remember that I lost my old cat Ripley a couple of years ago. Well, I wanted another cat, but just not at the time. Finally---I got one. She is another calico like Ripley. But Ripley had mostly brown and white coloring with a little black. This calico is mostly black with a little white and brown. She's sweet! (No name yet.)

(http://i183.photobucket.com/albums/x221/Shasta542/TOOTS09026.jpg)
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: David In Indy on August 06, 2009, 03:19:15 am
Some of you may remember that I lost my old cat Ripley a couple of years ago. Well, I wanted another cat, but just not at the time. Finally---I got one. She is another calico like Ripley. But Ripley had mostly brown and white coloring with a little black. This calico is mostly black with a little white and brown. She's sweet! (No name yet.)

(http://i183.photobucket.com/albums/x221/Shasta542/TOOTS09026.jpg)
Some of you may remember that I lost my old cat Ripley a couple of years ago. Well, I wanted another cat, but just not at the time. Finally---I got one. She is another calico like Ripley. But Ripley had mostly brown and white coloring with a little black. This calico is mostly black with a little white and brown. She's sweet! (No name yet.)

(http://i183.photobucket.com/albums/x221/Shasta542/TOOTS09026.jpg)

Yup! I like it so much I quoted it twice!! ;)

Love the new kitteh!  8)  8)

Let's just hope she doesn't decide to deposit dead mouse corpses on your pillow!  :laugh:

I don't think she will. Well maybe. She has a devilish face just like my Oreo.

Aww so cute!! Congratulations Shasta!! :D :D

Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: Kelda on August 06, 2009, 04:56:54 am
yay! Cant see cos I'm at work at the mo looking forward to 'meeting' her!
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: Shasta542 on August 06, 2009, 08:59:49 am
 ;D  :-*  :-*  ;D

Thank you, David and Kelda! No mouse corpses yet, but this morning my computer mouse was mysteriously dangling from the desk. Hmmmmm...that has never happened before, so I think my little cat is a mischief maker!  
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: Katie77 on August 07, 2009, 02:39:31 am
I put this on my blog, but thought I would show it off here too.

These are baby magpies, who come visit me for meat every day. They are full size but they are light in colour compared to the vivid black and white they will eventually be. Magpies are a protected species in australia.

Here is a link for more info on the Australian magpie.http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Australian_magpie

(http://i220.photobucket.com/albums/dd7/suekat777/IMGP0003.jpg)
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: David In Indy on August 07, 2009, 03:11:33 am
I put this on my blog, but thought I would show it off here too.

These are baby magpies, who come visit me for meat every day. They are full size but they are light in colour compared to the vivid black and white they will eventually be. Magpies are a protected species in australia.

Here is a link for more info on the Australian magpie.http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Australian_magpie

(http://i220.photobucket.com/albums/dd7/suekat777/IMGP0003.jpg)


Aww! how cute! I love those magpies! I love their facial expressions! They look a bit angry but very cute and sweet at the same time. I'm glad you are taking care of them Sue. Can you pet them? Will they allow you to pet them? Have you ever tried? If I was there I'd probably try. :)

We don't have magpies here (at least not to my knowledge) but I feed the squirrels and raccoons every day. I throw out all the scraps each night and the following morning the scraps are gone. I also feed the squirrels corn seed - the raccoons don't like the corn too much. They prefer bread and other scraps. I also throw any leftover bones into the yard for the coyotes. Everything is always gone the next morning.

The birds are taken care of too. I feed them store bought bird feed. And the humming birds get sugar water in their feeders. Lately they have been going through two feeders of suger water every couple of days! We have an entire flock of humming birds living in the bush by the patio. :)

Dad caught me sitting out on the patio petting a raccoon in my lap the other night. He got very angry with me. He said the animal could have bit me and given me rabies. He's probably correct. But they are so friendly and they've seen me numerous times out there feeding them at night. They know me. But he's right. I probably shouldn't do it anymore. :-\

Besides, I got bit last year trying to pull an injured raccoon off the road. So I really should know better. But they are so cute, and there is a big difference between an injured animal and a healthy and happy animal.

Thanks for the cute pictures Sue! :D

Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: Kelda on August 07, 2009, 04:12:48 am
They sit on yor knee!?! wow!
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: Katie77 on August 07, 2009, 05:42:50 am
Awww David, I can relate to everything you do as far as all the animals go. And I know too, how good it feels when they trust you enough to come close or sit on your lap. Animals can tell who will be kind to them.

No matter where we live, we always end up with lots of birds or animals around us. I'm sure they send word out through the "bush telegraph" that they can all get a feed at our place.

And you do have to be careful, that you dont get bitten though. The thought of getting rabies is pretty scarey.
Do you know that there are NO rabies here in Australia. Guess because we are an island, and strict quarantine regulations has not allowed it to get into the country.

What you do with animals is part of who you are, it just comes natural, and its a wonderful way to be.
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: CellarDweller on August 07, 2009, 06:36:57 am
Congrats on the new Kitten, Shas!

she can has cheezburger?
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: delalluvia on August 07, 2009, 04:41:19 pm
Congrats on the new kitten, Shasta!!

She looks adorable.  And all kittens are mischievious.
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: David In Indy on August 07, 2009, 05:10:22 pm
They sit on yor knee!?! wow!

Oh yes! Absolutely! There's three of them that come around at night on a regular basis. They all know me. Sometimes they will keep their distance a little bit, but if I sit down and lure them over with a piece of bread they will sometimes jump up. I doubt I would be able to do that with other raccoons though- the ones that are not familiar with me.
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: David In Indy on August 07, 2009, 05:12:40 pm
That's really interesting about Australia Sue. And very good news too! And it's probably because Australia is an island (a very BIG island) just like you said. :)

Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: David In Indy on August 07, 2009, 05:14:52 pm
Congrats on the new Kitten, Shas!

she can has cheezburger?

Kittehs are 8)

Especially Shasta's new kitteh.
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: Kelda on August 09, 2009, 08:25:24 am
(http://i183.photobucket.com/albums/x221/Shasta542/TOOTS09026.jpg)
awwww!!!
Title: Rockin' Rory the Dog Competes on America's Got Talent
Post by: David In Indy on August 11, 2009, 11:29:17 pm
He missed a couple of his frisbees tonight, but the crowd loved him. He was really cute.

You can watch a video of Rory by clicking on the link at the bottom of this post.


Rockin' Rory competes on America's Got Talent

Los Angeles - A Hoosier canine gave a live performance on America's Got Talent Tuesday night.
Rockin' Rory and his best friend Tony Hoard headed to Hollywood last week. They are Indiana's last team competing on the national talent show. Hoard rescued Rory and the two have clicked with their high flying act ever since.

The frisbee-throwing/retrieving team has made it through two rounds. Now it's down to the semi-finals.

In order to win, Rory will need your votes, so get ready to call in and cast your votes to help our Hoosier team. To vote for Rory, call 1-866-602-4804 or text "vote" to 4804.

Rory and Tony will find out if they advance Wednesday night live on Channel 13.


http://www.wthr.com/global/story.asp?s=10886006 (http://www.wthr.com/global/story.asp?s=10886006)

Title: That Squirrel Just Wants to Have Fun
Post by: David In Indy on August 17, 2009, 04:11:57 am
This is not my picture. I found it on the Internet and I thought I'd share it with you.

Cute!!!


(http://i77.photobucket.com/albums/j43/Davidindy/picturecrashingsquirrel.jpg)


"An attention-hungry squirrel investigating an automatic camera crashes a Minnesota couple's vacation photo in Lake Minnewanka, Canada, Aug. 7. "We were getting ready when this ground squirrel appeared, became intrigued with the sound of the focusing camera and popped right into our shot," Melissa Brandts said. "We were laughing about this little guy for days." "


http://news.aol.com/article/worlds-largest-cupcake/577802 (http://news.aol.com/article/worlds-largest-cupcake/577802)

(Look at the "Far Out Photo" section down towards the bottom)




Title: Re: That Squirrel Just Wants to Have Fun
Post by: Monika on August 17, 2009, 04:17:23 am
This is not my picture. I found it on the Internet and I thought I'd share it with you.

Cute!!!


(http://i77.photobucket.com/albums/j43/Davidindy/picturecrashingsquirrel.jpg)


"An attention-hungry squirrel investigating an automatic camera crashes a Minnesota couple's vacation photo in Lake Minnewanka, Canada, Aug. 7. "We were getting ready when this ground squirrel appeared, became intrigued with the sound of the focusing camera and popped right into our shot," Melissa Brandts said. "We were laughing about this little guy for days." "


http://news.aol.com/article/worlds-largest-cupcake/577802 (http://news.aol.com/article/worlds-largest-cupcake/577802)

(Look at the "Far Out Photo" section down towards the bottom)





this story even made it to Swedish newspapers!
Everyone loves cute animals, I guess :)
Title: Dog Swallows Nine Golf Balls
Post by: David In Indy on September 02, 2009, 11:15:40 pm
He swallowed nine golf balls.... and survived!

And they found something else in there too while operating on him. Something quite disturbing. :(

You can see his picture by clicking on the link below. He's a real cutie! :-*


Dog Survives Nine Golf Balls and a Bullet

They say cats have nine lives, but the saying may also hold true for dogs.

Or at least it may hold true for Bertie, a pointer cross-breed who swallowed nine golf balls in July and luckily lived to tell -- or should we say wag -- his tail.

According to the Telegraph, Bertie's owners Mark and Michelle Jewell often took their dog for strolls through their town of Malden, England. One day, they noticed Bertie's gait looked funny. Concerned, they took their dog to the Clarendon House Veterinary Center, where x-rays revealed an astonishing sight: Bertie had managed to swallow nine golf balls, all of which remained lodged in his tummy.

"We were absolutely flabbergasted when we saw Bertie's x-ray," veterinarian Emily Nightingale told the Telegraph. "His stomach could have easily ruptured from the pressure of all of the golf balls, which could have been fatal."

As if the golf balls weren't enough, veterinary surgeon John Matthews got another surprise while performing the emergency two-hour surgery on Bertie. The Telegraph reports that buried in the fatty tissue surrounding the dog's stomach was a bullet -- described in one report as an "air rifle" bullet -- which Dr. Matthews also removed.

"He had no wounds from the gun shot injury so we suspect he had been shot a long time ago and there is no chance he could have swallowed the bullet as it was outside the stomach," Dr. Nightingale told ZooToo.com.

Unfortunately, Bertie's ordeal seems not uncommon. In June, an eight-month old Rottweiler puppy in Boston swallowed eight golf balls, but also luckily survived. As for Bertie, he has rebounded from his surgery on July 27 and scoffed at the idea of changing the spelling of his name to Birdie.

To see Bernie's outrageous x-ray, cue the video below to 1 minute 3 seconds.


http://www.pawnation.com/2009/09/01/dog-survives-nine-golf-balls-and-one-bullet/?icid=main|htmlws-main|dl5|link4|http%3A%2F%2Fwww.pawnation.com%2F2009%2F09%2F01%2Fdog-survives-nine-golf-balls-and-one-bullet%2F (http://www.pawnation.com/2009/09/01/dog-survives-nine-golf-balls-and-one-bullet/?icid=main|htmlws-main|dl5|link4|http%3A%2F%2Fwww.pawnation.com%2F2009%2F09%2F01%2Fdog-survives-nine-golf-balls-and-one-bullet%2F)
Title: Re: Dog Swallows Nine Golf Balls
Post by: Penthesilea on September 03, 2009, 09:10:55 am
Dog Survives Nine Golf Balls and a Bullet


Jeez! He was really lucky. Some dogs gobble down weird stuff ::).
And the bullet is downright mysterious :o.


Oh, the squirrel from a week or so ago made it also into my newspaper :D. That pic is is too funny.
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: CellarDweller on September 03, 2009, 10:06:40 am
Good lord.

I remember seeing a show where a dog was rushed to the hospital for swallowing a large kitchen knife that a vistor to his owners' house had used to cut chocolate cake, and left lying on the coffee table.

The dog survived the ordeal, and according to the owners, the vets were more concerned about the amount of chocolate the dog ingested instead of the knife.

That was when I found out that chocolate was poisonous to dogs.
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: delalluvia on September 14, 2009, 11:59:37 pm
Good lord.

I remember seeing a show where a dog was rushed to the hospital for swallowing a large kitchen knife that a vistor to his owners' house had used to cut chocolate cake, and left lying on the coffee table.

The dog survived the ordeal, and according to the owners, the vets were more concerned about the amount of chocolate the dog ingested instead of the knife.

That was when I found out that chocolate was poisonous to dogs.

How they manage to swallow things and sometimes pass them is beyond me.  Once years ago, I was cleaning out the catbox (these were my old cats) and found a bobby pin in one of the poops.  Not a little hair pin, but one of the bigger ones. How in the heck one of my cats swallowed the thing and it managed to pass all the loops and twists and coils of her intestines without much discomfort or puncturing something I will never know.
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: CellarDweller on September 15, 2009, 06:47:10 am
Once years ago, I was cleaning out the catbox (these were my old cats) and found a bobby pin in one of the poops.  Not a little hair pin, but one of the bigger ones.

Holy cow!   I can just imagine the shock on your face!
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: CellarDweller on September 15, 2009, 08:22:24 pm
I've posted new pics of my cat Blaze on my blog.

You can see them starting here.


http://bettermost.net/forum/index.php/topic,13511.msg539746.html#msg539746
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: David In Indy on September 17, 2009, 03:55:05 am
I've posted new pics of my cat Blaze on my blog.

You can see them starting here.


http://bettermost.net/forum/index.php/topic,13511.msg539746.html#msg539746

Blaze is a pretty kitty! :-* :-*

He's a handsome cat! I just love him! :D :D
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: CellarDweller on September 28, 2009, 09:45:42 pm
Oh my!

Y'all should see poor Blaze!   :laugh:

He had a vet appointment today.  Blaze HATES the vet.  He was going there to get some shots, and to get his nails clipped.

The only way the vet can handle him is to tranquilize him.  He REALLY hates the vet.  The first time we took him to the vet as an adult, he growled, hissed, scratched the nurse, and shit on the floor.

Anyway, he was given his tranquilizer, and had all his shots today, as well as his nails trimmed.

He's still wobbling around due to the tranquilizer.  He'll walk around, and lose balance and flop on the floor, and then jump up on his platform, and then jump off, and belly-flop to the floor.

lmao!

We've shut the doors to the stairs, so he can't fall down them and really hurt himself.

Aside from all this, he's in good spirits.
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: Shasta542 on September 29, 2009, 07:14:20 am
New name = Mr. Tipsy  :D

Hope Blaze has recovered nicely from his tranquil state and from his traumatic experience!!!

A friend has a cat like that---she was/is a feral cat. It's a major ordeal to take her to the vet and she's having to go once a week for a month or so -- something about her ear.
  :o
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: Kelda on September 30, 2009, 02:25:49 pm
 :laugh: Poor Blaze!
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: Shasta542 on October 01, 2009, 05:21:56 am
My cat called a friend of mine on my cell phone. At midnite Tuesday AM. LOL. I was sound asleep and the phone was on a table. Yep. She just helped herself. It was on the call log and everything. She is a first class rascal.  ;D I love her.  :-*
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: CellarDweller on October 01, 2009, 06:20:42 am
lmao!

That's soooo funny!
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: Shasta542 on October 01, 2009, 06:27:07 am
lmao!

That's soooo funny!

LOL. Yeah. I couldn't figure out how she happened to get that particular person---who is in the letter "C" section. I guess she just scrolled down til she decided to dial! It would have been great if Roxy "meowed" to say HI!  :D

She gets the dog's ball and other toys and runs away with them too. It makes Nicki soooo mad. 
 
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: Kelda on October 01, 2009, 02:56:40 pm
She sounds a handful!
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: CellarDweller on October 29, 2009, 08:04:10 am
Tomorrow is mischief night, or Devil's night, depending on where you live.  And then Saturday is Halloween.

Fun time of year, however, it's also the time that sickos do things to animals.

Please remember that if you have pets, keep them indoors, and keep your eye on them, and the neighborhood in general.
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: Brown Eyes on October 29, 2009, 10:16:25 am

Some pretty pictures of Vivien taken last night!  She was gazing at the candles in the holders that I keep in my fireplace.  She always turns out to be an elegant silhouette in photos... in this case it's particularly pronounced because of the lighting. 

Here she's looking at the camera (but you can hardly tell!).
<img src="http://www.divshare.com/img/midsize/9085065-2fe.JPG" border="0" /> (http://www.divshare.com/download/9085065-2fe)

And, here she's being pensive, looking at the candles.
<img src="http://www.divshare.com/img/midsize/9085064-86d.JPG" border="0" /> (http://www.divshare.com/download/9085064-86d)

She's definitely my little Halloween cat!

Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: Kelda on October 31, 2009, 07:00:26 pm
cool pics!
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: Fran on December 11, 2009, 09:25:03 pm
I got a whippet.  Ten years old.  Sleeps a lot.  :)

(http://i198.photobucket.com/albums/aa188/ffrraann/DSC01971.jpg)

Her name is Madison, and she's a real sweetheart.  She loves the sofas and the beds!

This morning I said goodbye to my sweet girl.  Her advanced age (13) and IBS were seriously affecting her quality of life, and I decided it was time to end her suffering.

Rest in peace, Madison.
October 31, 1996 - December 11, 2009
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: Front-Ranger on December 11, 2009, 10:57:20 pm
Fran, this must be a sad day for you. We are with you, friend. I know Madison had a sweet life, a sweet and long life with you and your family.  :-*
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: Shasta542 on December 12, 2009, 12:02:47 am
{{{{{{{{{FRAN}}}}}}}}}}

She looks like she liked you to kiss her face.  :)

They are part of the family---it's a sad time.

Bless your hearts---I'm thinking of you and your family.
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: Fran on December 12, 2009, 12:48:35 am
Thanks for the kind words, FRiend Lee and Shasta.  We're doing OK, all things considered.
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: Kelda on December 12, 2009, 06:38:18 am
I'm sorry to hear that Fran... (((Fran)))
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: Penthesilea on December 12, 2009, 07:12:10 am
Oh, this is so sad. It's such a hard thing to make this decision and say goodbye to a beloved pet. They're family members.
Madison looks nothing but gentle. She must have been a sweet dog. Poor Fran.
(((Fran)))
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: oilgun on December 12, 2009, 05:57:36 pm
So sorry to hear about Madison, what a gorgeous dog!  I'm sure she had a charmed life with you though, so that's a bit comforting.

This will cheer people up.  A friend of mine just recently set up house with her lover and they bought this cute miniature Deer-Head Chihuahua.  His name is Newt and I consider him my nephew, lol! :

(http://i176.photobucket.com/albums/w197/oilgun/ABC%20Movies/DSC00358.jpg)
(That's me holding him.)

When she said they were looking at Chihuahuas I just groaned thinking of all those awful nervous yappy things I've seen all my life.  Anyone see that "devil Dog" episode of Caesar,the Dog Whisperer featuring a nervous yappy fat chihuaha from hell and he was still awful, although less so, after Ceasar did his thing?  Well that dog perfectly personified (Doggified?) my opinion of this breed.

Well that image left the second I met Newt.  That pup singlehandedly redeemed his whole breed.  Although he IS nervous (!), he's not yappy and he's incredibly social.  He seems to love me for some reason. (and the poor thing is living with two lesbians, lol!  ;))

Here are a few more shots, including one of him at a Doggie Halloween Party (!?)

(http://i176.photobucket.com/albums/w197/oilgun/ABC%20Movies/DSC00507.jpg)
(http://i176.photobucket.com/albums/w197/oilgun/ABC%20Movies/DSC00510.jpg)
(http://i176.photobucket.com/albums/w197/oilgun/ABC%20Movies/IMG_1967.jpg)
(http://i176.photobucket.com/albums/w197/oilgun/ABC%20Movies/IMG_1981.jpg)
(http://i176.photobucket.com/albums/w197/oilgun/ABC%20Movies/IMG_2051.jpg)
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: Kelda on December 12, 2009, 07:03:49 pm
Awww! Very cute....!!

About 2 hours ago.. CAllum found our cat Skimble right in the middle of the xmas tree.. thankfully he found his way back out without knocking the whole damn thing over!!!
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: Shasta542 on December 12, 2009, 07:17:46 pm
Awwwwwww.....I love Newt! He's so cute.

Skimble is rascally like Roxanne! I just went and got her kitty tent out of the living room and put it in here so she would stay out of my computer wires and cabinet!!!


(http://i183.photobucket.com/albums/x221/Shasta542/CopyofA053.jpg)
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: oilgun on December 12, 2009, 08:39:33 pm
Awwwwwww.....I love Newt! He's so cute.

Skimble is rascally like Roxanne! I just went and got her kitty tent out of the living room and put it in here so she would stay out of my computer wires and cabinet!!!


(http://i183.photobucket.com/albums/x221/Shasta542/CopyofA053.jpg)

OMG!  My heart broke into a million pieces when I saw this pic!  Skimble is the spitting image of a cat I owned, tragically for too brief a time.  I had to let her go when she was only eight due to some inoperable tumour.  I so loved her and still miss her to this day.  In fact I haven't had the courage to bond with another animal like I had with her.  Losing her was so painful.

She literally walked into my life as a kitten.  I opened my apartment door one day and in pranced this adorable litttle fluff-ball.  What could I do, I felt it was fate so I kept it, lol!  It turned out she belonged to a neighbour who would have had to give it up anyway because she was moving, so she was happy it found a home.  

Man, how I came to love that cat!  I called her Oedipuss (I had recently seen UNDER THE VOLCANO, lol!)  and sometimes for short, Eddie (When I was being stern) or Puss (when I was being all lovey-dovey). Come to think of it, the poor thing had a lot of names, the neighbour had named her Patches)   My happiest memories of her is when we played tackle-tag.  I'd run after her and tip her to the floor then she'd run after me and grab my ankle with her front legs and i would pretend to fall and I'd roll on the ground. And repeat, lol!.  It was almost a pre-dinner ritual, we were so happy to see each other after the day apart.
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: Ellemeno on December 12, 2009, 08:51:36 pm
This morning I said goodbye to my sweet girl.  Her advanced age (13) and IBS were seriously affecting her quality of life, and I decided it was time to end her suffering.



Fran, I remember when you posted that image of Madison.  She was lovely.  One of the things I've heard said is that one of the hardest parts about losing our beloved animals is that they help get us through the tough stuff, and when the tough stuff is losing them, then we don't quite know where to turn.  Big hug, and thank for letting us know.
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: Shasta542 on December 12, 2009, 08:56:02 pm
OMG!  My heart broke into a million pieces when I saw this pic!  Skimble is the spitting image of a cat I owned, tragically for too brief a time.  I had to let her go when she was only eight due to some inoperable tumour.  I so loved her and still miss her to this day.  In fact I haven't had the courage to bond with another animal like I had with her. 

She literally walked into my life as kitten.  I opened my apartment door one day and in in pranced this adorable kitten.  What could I do, I felt it was fate so I kept it, lol!  It turned out she belonged to a neighbour who would have had to give it up anyway because she was moving, so she was happy it found a home. 

Man, how I came to love that cat!  I called her Oedipuss (I had recently seen UNDER THE VOLCANO, lol!)  and sometimes for short, Eddie (When I was being stern) or Puss (when I was being all lovey-dovey). Come to think of it, the poor thing had a lot of names, the neighbour had named her Patches)   My happiest memories of her is when we played tackle-tag.  I'd run after her and tip her to the floor then she'd run after me and grab my ankle with her front legs and i would pretend to fall and I'd roll on the ground. And repeat, lol!.  It was almost a pre-dinner ritual, we were so happy to see each other after the day apart.

Ohhh. How sweet!! She picked you out for her very own! I'm sorry that you lost her so soon. 8 is about middle aged for a cat, I think, tho I've known a couple people whose cats lived to 19-20. My cat before this one was 17 when she died.

So your Oedipuss was a calico! Did you know that all calicos are females? If there is ever a male, it is a rarity.

The cat in the picture is Roxanne. Kelda's cat is Skimble. I think he is all black, isn't he, Kelda? We also like to name our pets after things we've viewed or read. Skimble is from "CATS" -- the poem or the musical. And Roxy is from the Steve Martin movie. :)

I hope you will get another cat some day. I wasn't going to get another one, but I am glad that I did. She is a brat, but she has given me and the dogs a lot of fun and joy. We play, but not quite like you and your kitty played! I would probably break a leg, hip, arm, or something if I tried that!

I got Ripley, the one before Roxy, at the Humane Society. She was in the window in a cage--a baby and so cute. I was in line at PetCo complaining about how the mice had taken over since Ripley died two years ago, and the lady in front of me said, "I've got a kitten that I'll give you."  LOL. She drove back to her house the next town over, got her and brought her back. And I haven't seen a mouse since!

Roxy sleeps with me. She's a good cuddler.  :D
 
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: Kelda on December 13, 2009, 07:55:40 am
Right and Right Shasta!!!



The cat in the picture is Roxanne. Kelda's cat is Skimble. I think he is all black, isn't he, Kelda? We also like to name our pets after things we've viewed or read. Skimble is from "CATS" -- the poem or the musical. And Roxy is from the Steve Martin movie. :)

 
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: Fran on December 13, 2009, 10:54:18 am
Thank you, Kelda, Chrissi, Gil, and Elle for your messages of support.  They meant a lot. 

Madison was a beautiful dog, very elegant.  She really didn't look her age.  In fact, just a few months ago, people were still mistaking her for a greyhound puppy and they were surprised when I told them her real age.  I hope my girl really had a "sweet life" with our family.  I've been slowly putting away her "stuff":  coats, beds, toys, blankets, collars, leashes, and just recently, a new soft harness we bought for her after her chiropractor said she shouldn't wear a collar anymore due to neck pain.  (Yes, she was spoiled!)  I brought her leftover medicines to the vet's office on Friday afternoon.  In these trying economic times, maybe some pet owner will appreciate a "freebie."

Elle summed it up exactly with: "One of the things I've heard said is that one of the hardest parts about losing our beloved animals is that they help get us through the tough stuff, and when the tough stuff is losing them, then we don't quite know where to turn."  Well, I'm glad I turned to this thread. Thanks, everyone.

 
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: CellarDweller on December 15, 2009, 11:11:14 pm
I just came to this thread thread today.

Fran, I'm so sorry about Madison.


(http://www.lagunahillsanimalhospital.com/Euthanasia/The_Rainbow_Bridge/rainbow_bridge_2lhah.jpg)


Just this side of heaven is a place called
Rainbow Bridge.

When an animal dies that has been especially close to someone here, that pet goes to Rainbow Bridge. There are meadows and hills for all of our special friends so they can run and play together.

There is plenty of food, water and sunshine, and our friends are warm and comfortable.

All the animals who had been ill and old are restored to health and vigor. Those who were hurt or maimed are made whole and strong again, just as we remember them in our dreams of days and times gone by.

The animals are happy and content, except for one small thing; they each miss someone very special to them, who had to be left behind. They all run and play together, but the day comes when one suddenly stops and looks into the distance. His bright eyes are intent. His eager body quivers.

Suddenly he begins to run from the group, flying over the green grass, his legs carrying him faster and faster. You have been spotted, and when you and your special friend finally meet, you cling together in joyous reunion, never to be parted again.

The happy kisses rain upon your face; your hands again caress the beloved head, and you look once more into the trusting eyes of your pet, so long gone from your life but never absent from your heart.

Then you cross Rainbow Bridge together...

Author Unknown
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: Fran on December 16, 2009, 11:14:48 am
Thank you, Chuck.  I do like the idea of my girl happy and content and restored to health and vigor....
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: CellarDweller on January 10, 2010, 12:25:15 am
Well, as you all know, we have a cat named Blaze.

As he is a black cat, his name really didn't fit.  We gave him the name when he went through a crazy fit of energy, running through the house, and dad said he was like an "out of control wild fire".

Well the other day, dad decided to light the gas fireplace we have, and removed the safety glass from the front of the fireplace, and bent over to light the fireplace.

He was unaware that Blaze was perhaps a wee bit too close.

He managed to singe the whiskers on the left side of his face.  His right side is just fine, and as long as ever.  His left side, the whiskers are curled and white on the ends that are left.

::)

Thankfully he didn't seriously hurt himself, and he seems to have suffered no ill effects.  He's still playful, and he even let us examine his face to make sure there was no other damage.

Now, he fits his name.
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: Kelda on January 12, 2010, 12:56:34 pm
Aww.. poor Blaze..

Yesterday I had the most disturbed nights sleep EVER! Just got home late last night frm10 days on holiay and went almost straight to bed..

The cat, Skilmble,  jumped on me and padded on me and rubed his face against me and purred in my ear, and generally kept me awake all night!!!!

I think he was happy we were back!
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: Shasta542 on January 12, 2010, 10:28:18 pm
Aww.. poor Blaze..

Yesterday I had the most disturbed nights sleep EVER! Just got home late last night frm10 days on holiay and went almost straight to bed..

The cat, Skilmble,  jumped on me and padded on me and rubed his face against me and purred in my ear, and generally kept me awake all night!!!!

I think he was happy we were back!

He has been lonely without you!  :)
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: Fran on January 17, 2010, 11:07:40 pm
There's a new whippet at our house!

I am thrilled to announce the arrival of

Ember

(http://i198.photobucket.com/albums/aa188/ffrraann/Ember/IMGP0718-2-1.jpg)

She's four-and-a-half months old and a real sweetheart.  I'm in heaven!
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: CellarDweller on January 17, 2010, 11:13:47 pm
Congrats Fran!  Welcome Ember!
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: Shasta542 on January 18, 2010, 01:23:48 am
There's a new whippet at our house!

I am thrilled to announce the arrival of

Ember

(http://i198.photobucket.com/albums/aa188/ffrraann/Ember/IMGP0718-2-1.jpg)

She's four-and-a-half months old and a real sweetheart.  I'm in heaven!

OMG!!! She's so beautiful! YaY, Fran and family---congrats on the new family member!! I love her name, too.  
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: David In Indy on January 18, 2010, 02:51:45 am
OMG!!! She's so beautiful! YaY, Fran and family---congrats on the new family member!! I love her name, too.  

OMG Fran! She's just about the cutest thing I've ever seen in my life! :-*

Aww, look at that sweet little face!

Congratulations on your new fur baby! :D :D

She's adorable!
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: Fran on January 23, 2010, 07:06:16 pm
Congrats Fran!  Welcome Ember!

Thanks, Chuck.

OMG!!! She's so beautiful! YaY, Fran and family---congrats on the new family member!! I love her name, too.  

Thanks, Shasta.  I'm still getting used to her name.  I can't tell you how many times I've called her Madison.  :)

OMG Fran! She's just about the cutest thing I've ever seen in my life! :-*

Aww, look at that sweet little face!

Her face reminds me of a beagle.

She's growing like a weed.

(http://i198.photobucket.com/albums/aa188/ffrraann/Ember/DSC02227.jpg)
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: Kelda on January 24, 2010, 08:50:31 am
SOOOOOOOOOOOO CUTE!!!!!!!
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: Penthesilea on January 24, 2010, 01:57:19 pm
Awwww, cuteness overload :).
Congrats on the new family member Fran. Like everybody else said: she's so adorable.
Those huge dark and round eyes remind me of a baby seal.
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: loneleeb3 on January 24, 2010, 10:07:06 pm
There's a new whippet at our house!

I am thrilled to announce the arrival of

Ember

(http://i198.photobucket.com/albums/aa188/ffrraann/Ember/IMGP0718-2-1.jpg)

She's four-and-a-half months old and a real sweetheart.  I'm in heaven!

I'm just seeing this and all I can say is AWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWW!
What a sweet little thing!
She's just beautiful Fran.
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: David In Indy on January 25, 2010, 01:21:52 am

(http://i198.photobucket.com/albums/aa188/ffrraann/Ember/DSC02227.jpg)


She's soooo cute! She makes me want to get down on the floor with her and kiss and hug her! :-*


Are you crate training her, Fran? I think I see some crates in the background. I crate trained Cody. It works very well and is extremely effective if done properly. Even though I am no longer crate training my dog, I still have the crate and he loves going in there from time to time. He thinks of it as his very own den or cave - his private area. I leave the door open so he can freely go in and out. Normally he uses it when I am not at home. Sometimes I will find him sleeping in it when I return to the house. Or on my bed! That is if I manage to get through the door before he has a chance to come bounding down the stairs! lol

Dogs are den animals and I think he feels safe and secure in his "den" when other people are not around. :)

Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: Fran on January 25, 2010, 10:24:44 am
Thanks, Kelda, Chrissi, and Rich.  

Are you crate training her, Fran? I think I see some crates in the background.

Yes, she is being crate trained. (That one wall in our dining room is mirrored, so it looks like there's more than one crate in the second photo.)

The first photo was taken at the breeder's house.  Imagine those two crates in the background filled with Ember and four other whippets with her same coloring.  What a sight that was!


Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: Fran on January 26, 2010, 02:04:36 am
Here are some photos of Ember from her breeder.  There were eight puppies in the litter:  seven girls and one boy.  This was taken on September 1st, the puppies date of birth:

(http://i198.photobucket.com/albums/aa188/ffrraann/Ember/IMGP0332.jpg)

A close-up of Ember taken on September 2nd:

(http://i198.photobucket.com/albums/aa188/ffrraann/Ember/IMGP0343.jpg)

I'm not sure how old she was in the next one.

(http://i198.photobucket.com/albums/aa188/ffrraann/Ember/DSC_2170_2.jpg)

In other news, tomorrow I get to find out how much a replacement power cord costs for an Apple laptop.  I'm also investing in a baby gate because not-so-little Ember is sneaky...and fast.
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: Front-Ranger on January 26, 2010, 10:01:10 am
Whoa, sorry about the power cord, Fran! I just had to buy one of those myself and I was able to get a good deal at Micro Center...$80, about half the price of an Apple power cord. I hope you can break Ember of that bad habit soon, or else she will actually BE an ember!  :-\

Thank you for sharing the pictures, friend! Whippets are so loveable! My mother has had two of them, and now she has an Italian greyhound. Coco is SO devoted to my mother and such a sweet dog. She has been very long-lived too...14 years and going strong!
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: Fran on January 26, 2010, 07:28:31 pm
Whoa, sorry about the power cord, Fran! I just had to buy one of those myself and I was able to get a good deal at Micro Center...$80, about half the price of an Apple power cord. I hope you can break Ember of that bad habit soon, or else she will actually BE an ember!  :-\

Yep, FRiend Lee, you sure know your prices.  The replacement power cord was $80.  I told my daughter that we were replacing the first one, but that's it.  She's now been warned that Ember is attracted to cords and if she leaves something lying around, it's her problem, not Mom and Dad's.

But in the meantime, I also picked up some Bitter Apple to hopefully make all the things Ember's not supposed to be chewing less appealing.


Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: David In Indy on January 26, 2010, 07:46:22 pm

(http://i198.photobucket.com/albums/aa188/ffrraann/Ember/IMGP0332.jpg)

A close-up of Ember taken on September 2nd:

(http://i198.photobucket.com/albums/aa188/ffrraann/Ember/IMGP0343.jpg)


I think I can identify Ember in that top photo. It looks like she is under the hind leg, just above another pup. I think that is her because I can see an arrow-like marking on the puppy, just like the one she has on her fur. :)

Hopefully she will learn to stay away from those cords! I hope the Bitter Apple helps you in her training, Fran.

Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: David In Indy on January 26, 2010, 07:49:32 pm
Or maybe she is up at the top! The puppy up at the top also looks like he/she has similar markings to Ember!

 
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: Fran on January 26, 2010, 11:55:05 pm
David, I think your first guess is correct.  And yes, that mark on her does resemble an arrow.

I'm amazed at how the pigment has faded, especially around her face.
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: Fran on January 28, 2010, 07:31:32 pm
Ember now weighs 19.4 pounds, up from 18.2 on January 20th.  The vet, who used to raise Afghan hounds, says that she's coming along nicely and that she has a nice temperament.  

(http://i198.photobucket.com/albums/aa188/ffrraann/Ember/DSC02247.jpg)

(http://i198.photobucket.com/albums/aa188/ffrraann/Ember/DSC02245.jpg)

Look at those pretty teeth!
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: Penthesilea on January 29, 2010, 02:00:00 am

(http://i198.photobucket.com/albums/aa188/ffrraann/Ember/DSC02247.jpg)


Did you choose the dog matching to your corridor? ;)
Sweet picture of sweet Ember :).
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: David In Indy on January 29, 2010, 02:15:20 am
Ember now weighs 19.4 pounds, up from 18.2 on January 20th.  The vet, who used to raise Afghan hounds, says that she's coming along nicely and that she has a nice temperament.  

(http://i198.photobucket.com/albums/aa188/ffrraann/Ember/DSC02247.jpg)



Aww! She wants to come down and join in the fun! She probably sees that camera you are holding and wants to investigate it! :laugh:


(http://i198.photobucket.com/albums/aa188/ffrraann/Ember/DSC02245.jpg)

Look at those pretty teeth!


She DOES have pretty teeth! And a pretty smile! She could even be in the movies! :-*

I love that blue collar she's sporting. Cody has a glow-in-the-dark collar. Purplish blue. So I don't trip over him at night. lol

He caused me to fall down the stairs... ALL the way down the stairs a few months ago, and I won't be having any more of THAT just now! :laugh:
:P

Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: Fran on January 29, 2010, 12:15:28 pm
Did you choose the dog matching to your corridor? ;)

It sure looks that way, doesn't it?
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: Fran on January 29, 2010, 12:22:45 pm
I love that blue collar she's sporting. Cody has a glow-in-the-dark collar. Purplish blue. So I don't trip over him at night. lol

That's an extra martingale collar that I bought for Madison which she never got a chance to wear.  (The martingale collars are great for dogs like greyhounds and whippets because they can't slip out of them.)

He caused me to fall down the stairs... ALL the way down the stairs a few months ago, and I won't be having any more of THAT just now! :laugh:
:P

David, for your sake, I hope those stairs were carpeted.  Major ouch!

Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: Brown Eyes on January 29, 2010, 03:58:45 pm

These are adorable pictures!  Thanks for sharing them! :)  She does look like a sweet dog. :)


Well, on a totally different topic...
I was coming here to this thread to share a really funny cat story.  Or at least funny to me!
 ;D

Vivien has discovered a new, goofy activity that she absolutely loves.  She has a large, wide cardboard box with low sides (kind of the perfect shape for a cat bed... it was an old shipping box at one time) that she likes to lounge in.  One day just to be silly I started gently pushing/ sliding the box along on the floor and occasionally slowly spinning it while she was lying in the box.  And, LOL... I discovered that she totally loves it.  Now, she'll sit in that box and let me scoot her all over the apartment that way.  It's like a cat amusement park ride.  At any point she'd be free to jump out (and she could do so easily), but she just sits there and goes along for the ride.  She'll even jump in and look at me on occasion as if thinking... come on, let's go!

 :laugh:



Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: Fran on January 29, 2010, 05:08:57 pm
Vivien has discovered a new, goofy activity that she absolutely loves.  She has a large, wide cardboard box with low sides (kind of the perfect shape for a cat bed... it was an old shipping box at one time) that she likes to lounge in.  One day just to be silly I started gently pushing/ sliding the box along on the floor and occasionally slowly spinning it while she was lying in the box.  And, LOL... I discovered that she totally loves it.  Now, she'll sit in that box and let me scoot her all over the apartment that way.  It's like a cat amusement park ride.  At any point she'd be free to jump out (and she could do so easily), but she just sits there and goes along for the ride.  She'll even jump in and look at me on occasion as if thinking... come on, let's go!

 :laugh:

It sounds like Vivien is quite the thrill-seeker.

You've got to record this, if you haven't done so already.  I think it would make an awesome video.  Who knows, you just might have the next YouTube sensation here.  :)
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: Kelda on January 29, 2010, 07:41:40 pm

You've got to record this, if you haven't done so already.  I think it would make an awesome video.  Who knows, you just might have the next YouTube sensation here.  :)

i agree!
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: David In Indy on January 30, 2010, 03:27:55 am

David, for your sake, I hope those stairs were carpeted.  Major ouch!



I didn't see him laying at the top of the stairs at the time. So, I fell down and broke my crown but there was no Jill tumbling after! :laugh:

And my name is not JACK! :P

That's an extra martingale collar that I bought for Madison which she never got a chance to wear.  (The martingale collars are great for dogs like greyhounds and whippets because they can't slip out of them.)


Awww! It looks so good on her, Fran! I'm glad Madison's collar was put to some good use!

:-* :-*

Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: delalluvia on January 30, 2010, 09:02:28 pm
Ember now weighs 19.4 pounds, up from 18.2 on January 20th.  The vet, who used to raise Afghan hounds, says that she's coming along nicely and that she has a nice temperament.  

(http://i198.photobucket.com/albums/aa188/ffrraann/Ember/DSC02247.jpg)

(http://i198.photobucket.com/albums/aa188/ffrraann/Ember/DSC02245.jpg)

Look at those pretty teeth!


Beautiful creature.  I love sighthounds.
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: Kelda on February 06, 2010, 06:57:53 pm
My Mum's doggy is going to be a mummy in early March.. and my sisters dog is the daddy!

A Christmas fling..  :laugh: ......... totally not planned but the dogs were together a bit more than planned at Christmas time due to christmas and the wedding.. and thats the result.....

This is the two of them back last summer...

(http://photos-f.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc1/hs104.snc1/4578_107585200906_560055906_3151562_3533055_n.jpg)

Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: delalluvia on February 06, 2010, 07:07:30 pm
Is that a twinkle I see in his eye?  : :laugh:
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: CellarDweller on February 06, 2010, 07:13:35 pm
A Christmas fling..  :laugh: ......... totally not planned but the dogs were together a bit more than planned at Christmas time due to christmas and the wedding.. and thats the result.....


 :laugh:

Didn't anyone explain to them the consequences of unsafe sex?

:o



 :laugh:
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: Kelda on February 06, 2010, 07:39:06 pm
Is that a twinkle I see in his eye?  : :laugh:


 :laugh:

Didn't anyone explain to them the consequences of unsafe sex?

:o



 :laugh:

 :laugh: :laugh: :laugh: :laugh: :laugh: :laugh:

FYI - The Daddy is the big doggy... the Mummy is the wee one... how the hell she'll carry puppys I dont know. but we know there is at least 2 from the xray thingy she got at the start of the week.

Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: Fran on February 06, 2010, 10:09:49 pm
My Mum's doggy is going to be a mummy in early March.. and my sisters dog is the daddy!

Kelda, is there a puppy in your future?  Just wondering....  :)
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: David In Indy on February 07, 2010, 12:46:19 am
I love those dogs, Kelda! They are both very cute!
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: Kelda on February 07, 2010, 11:22:55 am
We have a cat already.. and I'm a little alergic to the dog hair... so no we wont take one.. just play with them when we visit! They'll all go ... one doggy is enought for my mum.
Kelda, is there a puppy in your future?  Just wondering....  :)

I love those dogs, Kelda! They are both very cute!

Thanks D!  :-*
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: CellarDweller on February 10, 2010, 03:45:53 pm
Some new pics of Blaze I took today.



(http://i327.photobucket.com/albums/k463/dcfmod/family%20pics/SnowMagedden019.jpg)
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: CellarDweller on February 10, 2010, 03:46:42 pm
(http://i327.photobucket.com/albums/k463/dcfmod/family%20pics/SnowMagedden020.jpg)
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: CellarDweller on February 10, 2010, 03:47:30 pm
(http://i327.photobucket.com/albums/k463/dcfmod/family%20pics/SnowMagedden024.jpg)
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: CellarDweller on February 10, 2010, 03:48:29 pm
(http://i327.photobucket.com/albums/k463/dcfmod/family%20pics/SnowMagedden022.jpg)
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: Kelda on February 10, 2010, 07:01:08 pm
MIIEOOOWWWW!!!!
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: David In Indy on February 10, 2010, 07:51:50 pm
(http://i327.photobucket.com/albums/k463/dcfmod/family%20pics/SnowMagedden022.jpg)

Awww! Just look at that cute furry face! :-*

He's adorable Chuck! And it almost looks as if his eyes are glowing in a few of those pictures. A flashlight cat! lol

He's a real cutie Chuck!
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: Fran on February 17, 2010, 05:27:33 pm
Blaze is beautiful, Chuck.  What color are his eyes?

OT:  On a whippet board I visit, someone posted that their whippet Helen is now in labor and they've set up a video camera.  So, if anyone has any interest in seeing a whippet giving birth, go to:

http://www.ustream.tv/channel/shannon-down-whippet-litters

You'll need a password to enter.  It's whippets.

(http://i198.photobucket.com/albums/aa188/ffrraann/movies/Picture1-3.png)

Update:

6-1/2 hours later, there are three puppies:

(http://i198.photobucket.com/albums/aa188/ffrraann/movies/Picture2-3.png)
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: Kelda on March 02, 2010, 03:56:07 pm
My Mum's doggy is going to be a mummy in early March.. and my sisters dog is the daddy!

A Christmas fling..  :laugh: ......... totally not planned but the dogs were together a bit more than planned at Christmas time due to christmas and the wedding.. and thats the result.....

This is the two of them back last summer...

(http://photos-f.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc1/hs104.snc1/4578_107585200906_560055906_3151562_3533055_n.jpg)



Good news and bad news here.. on Saturday morning Lundie, my mums doggie had two adorable little puppies.....

(http://photos-d.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc3/hs374.snc3/23999_356493775906_560055906_5165680_5524624_n.jpg)
(http://photos-f.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc3/hs394.snc3/23999_356493795906_560055906_5165681_1366289_n.jpg)
(http://photos-h.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc3/hs394.snc3/23999_356493800906_560055906_5165682_7518270_n.jpg)
(http://photos-b.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc3/hs394.snc3/23999_356493820906_560055906_5165683_387928_n.jpg)
(http://photos-c.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc3/hs374.snc3/23999_356493840906_560055906_5165684_3277863_n.jpg)
(http://photos-e.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc3/hs394.snc3/23999_356493865906_560055906_5165685_2738467_n.jpg)


but last night, my sisters doggy, Bracken, the daddy, got loose from the back garden, and went for a wander. Now he's done that before and has come back later barking at the front door. But this time, he was missing for 5 hours before the police found him in a layby near the airport... he was clipped by a car and had been killed...  :-\

The kids are distraught but at least they have the puppies at their granny's house to keep their spirits up.
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: Fran on March 02, 2010, 04:12:27 pm
Poor Bracken.  :(  The driver of the car probably didn't even see him until it was too late.  Hopefully, he didn't suffer much.

Will your sister's family be taking one of the puppies now?
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: CellarDweller on March 02, 2010, 04:22:11 pm
Wow.....Kelda, talk about a big high and a big low.

I'm so sorry about Bracken!
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: Kelda on March 02, 2010, 06:42:07 pm
I think they will take one of the puppies, yes.

I think it would have been pretty quick as its a dual carriageway so the cars would have been going at some speed. Eilidh, my sister, said he had a small scratch on his nose and his leg but apart from that nothing, so I think it probably was.

He's now buried in a large pot in my sisters back garden, just like my Mum's previous doggy, Dieleaus.
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: Shasta542 on March 02, 2010, 10:17:57 pm
I am sorry about Bracken, Kelda. He was such a cute, bright-eyed little scamp. Very sad for your sister's family to lose him.

The puppies are darling! I'd want to keep both of them. I can't resist little puppies. That is why I get all my dogs spayed and neutered---if one of them had babies, I'd be naming them all and wanting to keep them. That would just be too much. I hope you all keep both of the puppies...at least in the family. :)
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: Kelda on March 03, 2010, 10:21:09 am
I certainly wont take one...it wouldnt be fair to the pup or my kitty cat to take a pup when we're out for a good percentage of the day.

But we'll see.
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: Fran on March 05, 2010, 10:21:50 pm
Ember turned six months old on March 1st.

She's losing her puppy look.

(http://i198.photobucket.com/albums/aa188/ffrraann/Ember/IMG_0010.jpg)
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: Shasta542 on March 06, 2010, 07:33:38 am
Ember turned six months old on March 1st.

She's losing her puppy look.

(http://i198.photobucket.com/albums/aa188/ffrraann/Ember/IMG_0010.jpg)


Ember! She is so beautiful. She looks regal and very much a little lady! Tell us about her personality. Is she affectionate, mischievous, rowdy, quiet...? She looks sweet, but as I know from my Roxy--looks don't always tell the tale!  :P :D ;)
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: Fran on March 06, 2010, 11:09:54 am
Ember! She is so beautiful. She looks regal and very much a little lady! Tell us about her personality. Is she affectionate, mischievous, rowdy, quiet...? She looks sweet, but as I know from my Roxy--looks don't always tell the tale!  :P :D ;)

Shasta, it seems to me that Ember has a split personality.  She is a totally different dog inside the house than she is outside.

Inside, she is a little bat out of hell who isn't afraid of anything.  We had just had her a couple of days, when she came bounding down the stairs and, in a simple, effortless leap, jumped right up on a console table we have near the front door.  I was amazed, because Madison had never jumped up on anything -- well, except a sofa or a bed.  At the time, I was looking into getting a pet gate to keep her contained, but, once I saw her jumping ability, I nixed that idea, figuring that with a running start, she could easily clear most gates.  She loves to run upstairs to the bedrooms and plop herself down.  Pity the poor soul who just happens to be lying there.  She's scared my husband half to death on too many occasions to count.  Now we're keeping the bedroom doors closed.  She's also a counter and table surfer and, as previously noted, has a taste for computer cables (as well as phone chargers, wristwatches, and cell phones).  She loves Flossies and Bully Sticks.  She has the ability to stretch her body to its fullest and reach deep down into the tallest of waste baskets to retrieve whatever has been deposited there, especially used Kleenex.  Sweet Madison only chewed up two things that I remember while a puppy:  a pencil and a Berenstein Bears book -- and believe you me, my girls were very young at the time, and there were toys and books everywhere. 

Outside, Ember is a little scaredy cat who can't wait to get back inside.  Her trainer says that the breeder did her no favors keeping her as long as she did -- I believe it was because whippets develop slowly and the breeder couldn't decide which puppy she wanted to keep as a show dog -- because living in a quiet suburb, she was not exposed to the sounds of the city or given as much socialization as she should have received.  Ember is gradually getting used to the sounds of traffic, but the elevated trains scare the you-know-what out of her (and I mean this literally).  She is a cautious dog, hesitant to meet other dogs unless I approach them first, but, strangely, she is friends with the meanest dog who lives in our townhouse complex. (This is a dog that is so intimidating that he has to be put outside or locked in a bedroom when workmen arrive, yet Ember will approach him without a second thought.)  She has made considerable progress in getting used to the sounds of cars, etc., but she still has a way to go.  Of couse, she LOVES to run.  My sister has a huge backyard, and I have taken her running there a couple of times now as well as on a tennis court close to our house.  She is amazingly fast. 

We've got her enrolled in a Puppy Kindergarten class -- six dogs total -- which is taught by her trainer.  The trainer is pleased with the progress Ember's made socially in class because each week she's letting a little bit more of her personality show.

All in all, she's a sweet puppy, a real cuddler.  She loves her stuffies, and she's having lots of fun with the toys that Madison never played with.  She's totally different than Madison, but that's a good thing because Madison had lots of "issues."
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: delalluvia on March 06, 2010, 10:26:59 pm

Sorry to hear about Bracken, Kelda.  Always heartbreaking when they die in the street.  I, too, hope he didn't suffer and at least, he's home now, to stay.   :( :'(

Ember turned six months old on March 1st.

She's losing her puppy look.

(http://i198.photobucket.com/albums/aa188/ffrraann/Ember/IMG_0010.jpg)


GORGEOUS animal.
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: Shasta542 on March 07, 2010, 09:10:20 am
Shasta, it seems to me that Ember has a split personality.  She is a totally different dog inside the house than she is outside.

Inside, she is a little bat out of hell who isn't afraid of anything.  We had just had her a couple of days, when she came bounding down the stairs and, in a simple, effortless leap, jumped right up on a console table we have near the front door.  I was amazed, because Madison had never jumped up on anything -- well, except a sofa or a bed.  At the time, I was looking into getting a pet gate to keep her contained, but, once I saw her jumping ability, I nixed that idea, figuring that with a running start, she could easily clear most gates.  She loves to run upstairs to the bedrooms and plop herself down.  Pity the poor soul who just happens to be lying there.  She's scared my husband half to death on too many occasions to count.  Now we're keeping the bedroom doors closed.  She's also a counter and table surfer and, as previously noted, has a taste for computer cables (as well as phone chargers, wristwatches, and cell phones).  She loves Flossies and Bully Sticks.  She has the ability to stretch her body to its fullest and reach deep down into the tallest of waste baskets to retrieve whatever has been deposited there, especially used Kleenex.  Sweet Madison only chewed up two things that I remember while a puppy:  a pencil and a Berenstein Bears book -- and believe you me, my girls were very young at the time, and there were toys and books everywhere.  

Outside, Ember is a little scaredy cat who can't wait to get back inside.  Her trainer says that the breeder did her no favors keeping her as long as she did -- I believe it was because whippets develop slowly and the breeder couldn't decide which puppy she wanted to keep as a show dog -- because living in a quiet suburb, she was not exposed to the sounds of the city or given as much socialization as she should have received.  Ember is gradually getting used to the sounds of traffic, but the elevated trains scare the you-know-what out of her (and I mean this literally).  She is a cautious dog, hesitant to meet other dogs unless I approach them first, but, strangely, she is friends with the meanest dog who lives in our townhouse complex. (This is a dog that is so intimidating that he has to be put outside or locked in a bedroom when workmen arrive, yet Ember will approach him without a second thought.)  She has made considerable progress in getting used to the sounds of cars, etc., but she still has a way to go.  Of couse, she LOVES to run.  My sister has a huge backyard, and I have taken her running there a couple of times now as well as on a tennis court close to our house.  She is amazingly fast.  

We've got her enrolled in a Puppy Kindergarten class -- six dogs total -- which is taught by her trainer.  The trainer is pleased with the progress Ember's made socially in class because each week she's letting a little bit more of her personality show.

All in all, she's a sweet puppy, a real cuddler.  She loves her stuffies, and she's having lots of fun with the toys that Madison never played with.  She's totally different than Madison, but that's a good thing because Madison had lots of "issues."


Sounds like Ember is a handful!

My cousin got a dog from the country and now I have her (she was too rowdy for their smaller dog). She wasn't used to hearing town sounds, so she was wary about that too when we went outside. She is okay with them now tho.

How many breakfasts have been stolen by Ember---before you all remembered to push them away from the cabinet edge!? :)

I can just imagine that she runs fast with those long legs. I have 2 with legs like that and they zoom past the others. The running is good for her--gets a lot of that energy out.

Seems like Ember can be a clown--lots of fun and entertainment  for everybody. (As long as you hide the trash cans).
 
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: Fran on March 07, 2010, 10:37:29 am
GORGEOUS animal.

Thanks, del.
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: CellarDweller on March 07, 2010, 04:53:15 pm
Ok, why does this happen?

I came to the basement to get on the computer.....Blaze is on the computer chair, asleep.

I didn't have the heart to move him, so I gently pushed the chair to the side, and I'm sitting on a hard wood chair, while the cat is resting on the cushioned computer chair.

::) :D :D :D
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: Brokeback_Dev on March 07, 2010, 05:35:49 pm
Ok, why does this happen?

I came to the basement to get on the computer.....Blaze is on the computer chair, asleep.

I didn't have the heart to move him, so I gently pushed the chair to the side, and I'm sitting on a hard wood chair, while the cat is resting on the cushioned computer chair.

::) :D :D :D


 :laugh: :laugh: :laugh: 

Chuck, thats cute
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: Fran on March 15, 2010, 06:02:44 pm
Ok, why does this happen?

Because you are a softie and Blaze is one lucky cat.  :)
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: Fran on March 15, 2010, 06:03:19 pm
Ember in her new pita bed.  Yes, it looks just like an oversized pita pocket.

(http://i198.photobucket.com/albums/aa188/ffrraann/Ember/IMG_0025.jpg)
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: Shasta542 on March 15, 2010, 06:51:00 pm
It looks so cozy---I think I might want one.  :D
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: Fran on March 27, 2010, 11:53:52 pm
I'm proud to announce that Ember has successfully completed her Puppy I class.  Today was Graduation Day.

(http://i198.photobucket.com/albums/aa188/ffrraann/Ember/IMG_0040-1.jpg)
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: David In Indy on March 28, 2010, 04:14:11 am
I'm proud to announce that Ember has successfully completed her Puppy I class.  Today was Graduation Day.

(http://i198.photobucket.com/albums/aa188/ffrraann/Ember/IMG_0040-1.jpg)



Oh GOD how cute!!! And fun!!!

Yay for Ember!!!! And congratulations to both Ember and Fran!!! :D :D
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: David In Indy on March 28, 2010, 04:17:49 am
Ok, why does this happen?

I came to the basement to get on the computer.....Blaze is on the computer chair, asleep.

I didn't have the heart to move him, so I gently pushed the chair to the side, and I'm sitting on a hard wood chair, while the cat is resting on the cushioned computer chair.

::) :D :D :D

Dat'z beekuz u wuuuuuuuv dat kitteh! :-*

Dat iz wun lukkeh kitteh! :)

Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: Kelda on March 28, 2010, 07:24:26 am
Aww!

I'm proud to announce that Ember has successfully completed her Puppy I class.  Today was Graduation Day.

(http://i198.photobucket.com/albums/aa188/ffrraann/Ember/IMG_0040-1.jpg)

Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: CellarDweller on March 28, 2010, 08:19:20 pm
awwwwww....cute!

Congrats Ember!
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: Penthesilea on April 06, 2010, 04:39:44 am
My cat is missing!

 :'( :'( :'(


I know, you all didn't even know that I have a cat. Well, I didn't want to jinx it and kept my trap shut. Seems it didn't work :'(.Today we wanted to go to the vet and have him chipped (+ his shots).

3 1/2 weeks ago, a cat crawled under my yard gate when I was just sitting outside for a ciggie. Well, he came and he simply stayed. For four days, we didn't feed him and didn't let him into the house, so he would go home again. We didn't want to encourage him to stay and thus steal a beloved cat from their owner. He stayed anyway. Four full days he stayed hungry and lonely in my garden and barn. Then we fed him, let him in and took him to the vet to see whether he was chipped. He wasn't.
We kept him temporarily, and went looking for the owner. We hung flyers in the village, we asked around, we informed the local vet and they forwarded the info to an animal help organisation.

Last week, I said enough is enough and took down all flyers. I said he is ours now and we'll go to the vet after Easter (Monday is still an Easter holiday here).

Now he's gone :(.
He went for a stroll last night and hasn't come back yet. It's 10:30 am now. He's been away all night and all morning. He never is out for more than an hour a time. And he NEVER leaves out a meal. Never-ever. He's the most hoggish cat I've ever seen. But he didn't come for his morning meal today.

I am so worried. And I had to explain the situation to my kids. You can guess how the mood is now.
I could really, really use some encouragement and good thoughts from you.

 :'( :'( :'(

Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: Penthesilea on April 06, 2010, 04:46:05 am
This is my Cäsar:

(http://i575.photobucket.com/albums/ss192/Penthesilea09/Familie/46cce2a6.jpg)


(http://i575.photobucket.com/albums/ss192/Penthesilea09/Familie/135150df.jpg)


(http://i575.photobucket.com/albums/ss192/Penthesilea09/Familie/14481421.jpg)


(http://i575.photobucket.com/albums/ss192/Penthesilea09/Familie/61e81e54.jpg)


I'm sitting here, crying. Somehow I don't think we'll ever see him again. Oh shit.
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: Fran on April 06, 2010, 02:11:14 pm
My cat is missing!

 :'( :'( :'(

Oh, Chrissi, I'm so sorry.  I can't even imagine how awful you and the rest of your family must feel.  Have you put up some new flyers?

Maybe Cäsar picked up the scent of some female cat and went off to do what he had to do, losing all track of time.  He sure is a beautiful cat, and he's obviously a resourceful one.  Hopefully, he'll come home soon.


 
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: Penthesilea on April 06, 2010, 03:24:17 pm
Oh, Chrissi, I'm so sorry.  I can't even imagine how awful you and the rest of your family must feel.  Have you put up some new flyers?

Maybe Cäsar picked up the scent of some female cat and went off to do what he had to do, losing all track of time.  He sure is a beautiful cat, and he's obviously a resourceful one.  Hopefully, he'll come home soon.


Thank you Fran. Now it's almost 24 hours and he's still not back :(.
We've searched in the neighbourhood, calling his name. I keep calling him every time I'm outside.
 :'(
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: Kelda on April 06, 2010, 04:20:30 pm
Hes a lovely cat... hopefully hes gone back to his original owners...  :'(
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: Sason on April 06, 2010, 04:38:57 pm
Chrissi, it's too early to give up hope yet!

Our cat once went missing for three whole days, and we had almost given up on him.

Then, he suddenly returned, as if nothing had happened!
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: Fran on April 07, 2010, 01:25:35 pm
Chrissi, any news on your Happy Wanderer?

Maybe he's hiding because he found out you were taking him to the vet.   ;)
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: Penthesilea on April 07, 2010, 02:21:25 pm
Chrissi, any news on your Happy Wanderer?

Maybe he's hiding because he found out you were taking him to the vet.   ;)


No, sadly not. He's gone for two full days now :(. The bad thing is, I had such a strange feeling, directly on Monday evening. Just half an hour after he had gone for a stroll, we went to bed, and it didn't feel good. He never went out that late at night (except for the first few days when he wasn't allowed in the house). I even said so to my husband. He could come and go as he wanted, because we had reactivated our old cat flap.

Hubby told me I'm crazy and that he would surely be lying in the laundry as usual the next morning. Wrong.

I really hope he went back to his original owners, if he doesn't show up anymore. I miss him so much. :'(

Thank you also for your kind words Sonja and Kelda.
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: Penthesilea on April 30, 2010, 12:51:10 am
My cat is back!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

I woke up from the sound of a cat crying and jumped out of the bed - low and behold, there he was, standing in my floor, crying for food.

I can't believe it. He went missing on April, 6th - today is April 30th.

I'm happy, but I'm also back to square one. Were was he the last 3 1/2 weeks? He has gotten thin. But he must have eaten something. Does he have a home besides us? Did he go back there? Or did he spend the last three weeks wandering? Being here and there, getting fed sometimes by nice people, staying hungry/hunting mice/eating from trash bins on other times? Or did he choose to stay with another family, just like he did with us?

Well, I can't carry him to the vet first thing today because I don't know if he's "ours". One thing is for sure: he is still not castrated, which he should be. For now, I'll just wait and see if he stays.

But for now, I'm soooo happy to see him again :D.
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: CellarDweller on April 30, 2010, 06:20:52 am
awwww.  I'm glad he's back.

Chrissi, I would get him to the vet, just to make sure he's not been hurt in his adventures away.
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: Fran on April 30, 2010, 08:58:47 am
Awesome news, Chrissi!!!!!!!

That sure was a long time for a cat to be away, but obviously he is very resourceful.

Maybe you should put some kind of cat collar on him with your phone number on it, so in the event he does go off wandering again, you can get a phone call from whomever finds him.  Even if it turns out that he has another family somewhere, at least you'll have some answers.  I think they have "breakaway" collars for cats so you don't have to worry about them accidentally choking themselves in the event the collar gets caught on something.

I still think Cäsar was hiding because he didn't want to go to the vet.   ;)

To Cäsar:

Welcome home, you silly cat!
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: Penthesilea on April 30, 2010, 11:05:40 am
Thank you, Chuck and Fran :-*.

He's back to his normal routine as if he never were away, let alone 3 1/2 weeks.
He's fit as a fiddle :D.

We already tried the collar thingie when he came to us for the first time. We wanted to find his owners. But he simply didn't get used to the collar, he threw a complete fit every time I put it on for a few minutes. He also managed to get is lover jaw under the collar, no matter how tight I made it. And then he panicked because he couldn't get his jaw out of it again. I had to rescue him every time and open the collar. It is a self-opening collar, but with the impossible angle he put his jaw under it, he couldn't get it open ::). Dumb-ass cat ;).

Now I'll have another try at the collar. I'll put it on him every time I feed him, and take it off directly after. Hope it'll work.

Even more I hope he will stay.

"Where've you been? I don't get you Cäsar Del Mar!"

I'm happy but confused.
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: Sason on April 30, 2010, 01:13:13 pm
With cats you never know....

Esp if they aren't castrated.

Glad he came back, Chrissi!
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: Kelda on April 30, 2010, 02:20:07 pm
He might be mocrochipped Chrissi? If you took hi to the vet theyd be able to check?

Great that hes okay!
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: Penthesilea on April 30, 2010, 02:50:54 pm
He might be mocrochipped Chrissi? If you took hi to the vet theyd be able to check?

Great that hes okay!


We had him checked and looked for a microchip at the vet. No chip. We had also hung flyers, and the vet had notified a pet-help organization, which registers pets and missing pets. Of course we also asked around in the village. Nothing, nada.
We live in a rural community, where many people still hold cats "the old way". They live in and around the barn, which they have to keep free of rats and mice. They get only minimum feed, they never see a vet, they don't get castrated. They are basically livestock, not pets. Many wander off, get hit by cars, or whatever.  But there's no shortage of new cat-babies. :-\
Some people guessed he might come from such a home. I don't know. I would love to have him chipped and castrated ASAP, but I'm hesitant because we don't know whether he belongs to someone who cares for him and misses him (but if so, why the heck don't they have him castrated?).

We'll just wait if he stays and try to ease him into the collar.
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: David In Indy on April 30, 2010, 04:48:09 pm
Chrissi, I am so glad your cat came back home to you. I hope you figure out who he belongs to soon. I'm hoping perhaps he was one of those barn cats you were telling us about. If so, maybe you could keep him? Once he's been neutered he'll tend not to wander nearly as much, if at all. But I agree with you, it is better to hold off on the neutering until you figure out his history.

Fingers crossed he'll be yours forever! He sure is a cutie! Thanks for posting the pictures. I love the picture of him napping. That is so sweet and cute! :-*

Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: Kelda on April 30, 2010, 06:32:04 pm

We had him checked and looked for a microchip at the vet. No chip. We had also hung flyers, and the vet had notified a pet-help organization, which registers pets and missing pets. Of course we also asked around in the village. Nothing, nada.

Rhats right! I remeber youmenioning that now.. it is very odd! Are the kids as excited as you!?!
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: Penthesilea on June 04, 2010, 06:56:20 am
Update on Cäsar (and I hope I won't jinx it with posting this. Keep your fingers crossed, friends)

He's still here, he's well and cuddly and barely goes on a stroll. Mostly he stays in the house and garden, and if he's gone, he's usually back within an hour (knock on wood).

Next Wednesday, we have an appointment at the *you know where*, to have him chipped and castrated, as well as getting his shots. Then he will be officially ours! :D


I have also booked a place at the cattery for the time of our family vacation in July. It's the same cattery where our first cat, Bonnie, stayed several times, more than ten years ago. Gives me a good feeling that it's a place I know and trust.

 :) :) :)

Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: Kelda on June 04, 2010, 06:10:35 pm
Yay!

Update on Cäsar (and I hope I won't jinx it with posting this. Keep your fingers crossed, friends)

He's still here, he's well and cuddly and barely goes on a stroll. Mostly he stays in the house and garden, and if he's gone, he's usually back within an hour (knock on wood).

Next Wednesday, we have an appointment at the *you know where*, to have him chipped and castrated, as well as getting his shots. Then he will be officially ours! :D


I have also booked a place at the cattery for the time of our family vacation in July. It's the same cattery where our first cat, Bonnie, stayed several times, more than ten years ago. Gives me a good feeling that it's a place I know and trust.

 :) :) :)


Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: Sason on June 08, 2010, 06:30:07 pm
I'm glad Cäsar decided to stay, Chrissi!
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: Fran on June 08, 2010, 10:33:25 pm
Chrissi,

Hope all goes well at the vet's tomorrow. 
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: Fran on June 10, 2010, 04:45:43 pm
Uh-oh:

(http://i198.photobucket.com/albums/aa188/ffrraann/Ember/IMG_0195.jpg)

Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: southendmd on June 10, 2010, 05:29:38 pm
Ember:  "I just took a few bytes."
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: Fran on June 10, 2010, 09:59:06 pm
Ember:  "I just took a few bytes."

LOL.

At least she has the good sense not to swallow all the stuff she chews apart.

The darn dog has learned how to open her crate door, so now we have to spin it around so it's against the wall.
I think she has also figured out that door knobs have something to do with getting closed doors to open.   :-\



Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: Kelda on June 15, 2010, 02:59:56 pm
I love how she is posing with the CD!
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: Fran on June 22, 2010, 05:14:11 pm
Ember with an antler (which definitely isn't as crunchy as a CD):

(http://i198.photobucket.com/albums/aa188/ffrraann/Ember/Picture17.png)
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: southendmd on June 22, 2010, 05:25:04 pm
Ember with an antler (which definitely isn't as crunchy as a CD):

(http://i198.photobucket.com/albums/aa188/ffrraann/Ember/Picture17.png)

Cute!  Where's the rest of that elk?
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: Fran on June 23, 2010, 11:53:48 am
Cute!  Where's the rest of that elk?

 :)
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: CellarDweller on July 03, 2010, 09:49:18 pm
Some new pics of Blaze that I took tonight.


(http://i327.photobucket.com/albums/k463/dcfmod/family%20pics/newpics006.jpg)
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: CellarDweller on July 03, 2010, 09:49:59 pm
(http://i327.photobucket.com/albums/k463/dcfmod/family%20pics/newpics007.jpg)
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: CellarDweller on July 03, 2010, 09:50:23 pm
(http://i327.photobucket.com/albums/k463/dcfmod/family%20pics/newpics013.jpg)
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: CellarDweller on July 03, 2010, 09:51:11 pm
(http://i327.photobucket.com/albums/k463/dcfmod/family%20pics/newpics012.jpg)
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: Shasta542 on July 03, 2010, 10:29:46 pm
Blaze is a beautiful, fluffy kitteh!!! I'm trying to keep Roxanne inside tonight---people are shooting firecrackers all over the place. The dogs -- even tho inside -- do not like that at all.

Those are great pictures, Chuck. I'm glad Blaze has fully recovered from being ill. :)
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: CellarDweller on July 03, 2010, 10:37:56 pm
Blaze is a beautiful, fluffy kitteh!!! I'm trying to keep Roxanne inside tonight---people are shooting firecrackers all over the place. The dogs -- even tho inside -- do not like that at all.

Those are great pictures, Chuck. I'm glad Blaze has fully recovered from being ill. :)

Yeah, there are some fireworks going off today here too, although Blaze doesn't seem to be bothered by them.

yeah, he's a fluffy kitteh!  And thanks, we're happy he's recovered as well.  For that time period, we were worried about what the problem was, and the vet seemed to be unable to diagnose anything.  As mysteriously as it came, it went.

He apparently had an upset stomach about a week ago, he threw up 3 times, and didn't want to be picked up.  By the next morning, he was fine, and wanted to eat again.
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: Fran on July 08, 2010, 06:32:06 pm
(http://i327.photobucket.com/albums/k463/dcfmod/family%20pics/newpics013.jpg)

Blaze is very handsome . . . and apparently very smart, too.   What was he measuring?   ;)
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: CellarDweller on July 08, 2010, 06:53:10 pm
Blaze is very handsome . . . and apparently very smart, too.   What was he measuring?   ;)

I think he was measuring the size of the hole needed for a cat door.    :laugh:
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: Fran on July 12, 2010, 09:33:31 pm
I think he was measuring the size of the hole needed for a cat door.    :laugh:

Of course.  LOL
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: Fran on July 12, 2010, 09:35:38 pm
Ember relaxing on the screened-in porch:

(http://i198.photobucket.com/albums/aa188/ffrraann/Ember/IMG_0148.jpg)
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: Kelda on July 19, 2010, 06:27:39 pm
(http:///sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc4/hs054.snc4/35086_441015720906_560055906_6334209_5795866_n.jpg)

(http://sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc4/hs040.snc4/34362_441015725906_560055906_6334210_7854255_n.jpg)

While we begin packing to move......Skimble wonders whats going on .....
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: Fran on July 20, 2010, 12:28:11 am
While we begin packing to move......Skimble wonders whats going on .....

It looks like Skimble's making sure he's not accidentally left behind.  :)
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: Kelda on July 20, 2010, 10:33:40 am
It looks like Skimble's making sure he's not accidentally left behind.  :)

 :laugh:

 a lot of people have said that!!
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: CellarDweller on August 22, 2010, 08:13:45 pm
My cat Blaze just gave me the dirtiest look! I guess that's because I went into the basement, and he was there, using the litter box. I infringed upon his private moment. Oooops!
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: Shakesthecoffecan on August 22, 2010, 11:50:26 pm
Crybaby says Meow.
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: Fran on August 23, 2010, 12:59:57 am
Ember says WOOF!
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: Kelda on August 23, 2010, 03:58:39 am
 :laugh:

Skimble gave me that glare the other day when i did exactly the same thing!!
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: fritzkep on August 23, 2010, 06:15:26 pm
Blazy Turtle says hiss!

Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: Front-Ranger on August 23, 2010, 07:06:09 pm
Diva says purrr and I'm dogsitting for my mom's Italian greyhound Coco, who says, "yiyiyiyiyi".
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: Fran on September 01, 2010, 01:28:55 am
(http://i198.photobucket.com/albums/aa188/ffrraann/Ember/Picture31.png)

Today is Ember's 1st birthday!
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: Shasta542 on September 01, 2010, 07:13:57 am
(http://i198.photobucket.com/albums/aa188/ffrraann/Ember/Picture31.png)

Today is Ember's 1st birthday!

CUTE!!! Happy birthday to Ember!  :)
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: Kelda on September 01, 2010, 07:14:18 am
Happy Birthday Ember!
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: Brokeback_Dev on September 01, 2010, 07:14:47 am



             HAPPY 1ST BIRTHDAY EMBER!!!
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: southendmd on September 01, 2010, 08:27:18 am
(http://www.nouvellesimages.com/img_Dressed-up-Whippet-dog-at-gambling-table_Steven-PUETZER_ref~ANO623_mode~zoom.jpg)

Happy Birthday, Ember!
Hope it's a cool one!
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: Penthesilea on September 01, 2010, 11:44:28 am
A year already?
Happy Birthday Ember! :)
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: CellarDweller on September 01, 2010, 02:07:22 pm
Happy Birthday Ember!
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: Kelda on September 01, 2010, 03:22:05 pm
(http://sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-ash2/hs180.ash2/44303_458552485906_560055906_6824881_5889850_n.jpg)

(http://sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc4/hs371.snc4/45428_458552605906_560055906_6824884_6576270_n.jpg)

New house... and Skimble has found an identi-cat... 15 mins later and they were still staring each other out with their heckles up...

Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: Fran on September 01, 2010, 04:40:14 pm
(http://i198.photobucket.com/albums/aa188/ffrraann/movies/31j7nWlTNOL_SL500_AA300_.jpg)

Congrats on your new house, Kelda.  Hope you had an easy time unpacking and finding a place for everything.  The outside sure looks nice.

Hope Skimble plays nicely with his "twin" and vice versa.  :)
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: Kelda on September 01, 2010, 04:50:19 pm
Thanks Fran - love that cup!!
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: Fran on September 01, 2010, 07:56:07 pm
To Shasta, Kelda, Dev, Paul, Chrissi, and Chuck,

Thanks for your nice birthday wishes.  Now that I'm one, my mom says it's time to stop my destructive chewing.  I don't know about that.  By the way, you wouldn't believe what I did to my party hat.  Let's just say that I won't be wearing that again.   (Neither will anyone else.)

Love,


Ember

P.S.  Paul, please stop giving my mom ideas for photos.  Wearing that stupid party hat was bad enough.
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: Kelda on September 02, 2010, 05:47:51 am

P.S.  Paul, please stop giving my mom ideas for photos.  Wearing that stupid party hat was bad enough.[/font]

 :laugh: :laugh:
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: Penthesilea on September 02, 2010, 11:33:10 am
(http://sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-ash2/hs180.ash2/44303_458552485906_560055906_6824881_5889850_n.jpg)     (http://sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc4/hs371.snc4/45428_458552605906_560055906_6824884_6576270_n.jpg)

New house... and Skimble has found an identi-cat... 15 mins later and they were still staring each other out with their heckles up...


Has the indenti-cat showed up again yet? The other cat's owners might be in for a surpise, when Skimble begins to explore their backyard :).
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: Penthesilea on September 02, 2010, 11:37:37 am
I also have some new pics of my pets to share. And a story of my brazen cat: Yesterday morning he stole the cold cuts from my daughter's school lunch. Hubby had the bread toasted and therefore didn't close the Tupperware box as long as the bread was still warm. Tired me didn't notice this and left the kitchen door open. When I came out of the bathroom, Cäsar was on the stove and licking the bread. The pure bread, with nothing on it ::).

Cäsar is just as greedy as my dog when it comes to anything edible. But of course he's much more impertinent. He tries to steal from our plates while we're eating! >:( This gets him banned from the kitchen, but as soon as someone opens the door, he's back again, of course :laugh:.
He does things my dog would be in serious trouble for, if he tried it. :laugh:


Cäsar really close up:

(http://i575.photobucket.com/albums/ss192/Penthesilea09/Familie/634f56a7.jpg)


(http://i575.photobucket.com/albums/ss192/Penthesilea09/Familie/c5097175.jpg)


(http://i575.photobucket.com/albums/ss192/Penthesilea09/Familie/8d0ba976.jpg)


(http://i575.photobucket.com/albums/ss192/Penthesilea09/Familie/f1a871f7.jpg)

Curious Cäsar coming out of my tumbler :).
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: Penthesilea on September 02, 2010, 11:58:00 am
Mäxi and Cäsar lingering on front of the kitchen door while we were eating. I opened the door and found the two hungry souls :laugh:.

(Yes, I gave up years ago to prevent shoe piles in the corridor. Saves me lots of nerves ;D.)
(http://i575.photobucket.com/albums/ss192/Penthesilea09/Familie/87b3d3d3.jpg)


Speaking of dogs wearing stupid hats ;)
(http://i575.photobucket.com/albums/ss192/Penthesilea09/Familie/7b4ab300.jpg)



How about sunglasses?
(http://i575.photobucket.com/albums/ss192/Penthesilea09/Familie/d5ec9adf.jpg)


Sometimes my doggie manages to look like a doofus all on his own: he likes to sit like this :laugh:.
(http://i575.photobucket.com/albums/ss192/Penthesilea09/Familie/2ffb531d.jpg)
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: Fran on September 02, 2010, 01:10:29 pm
Great photos, Chrissi. 

I especially like the photo of Mäxi with the sunglasses.  He sure is a good sport.  How old is he now?

How nice of Cäsar to help you with the laundry.  He was emptying the dryer, right?   ;)
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: Kelda on September 03, 2010, 09:21:11 am

Has the indenti-cat showed up again yet? The other cat's owners might be in for a surpise, when Skimble begins to explore their backyard :).

Callum said Skimble chased him out of the garden last night!! I haven't seen him since then though.. can't see your pics.... at work, must come back to see these once at home!
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: Kelda on September 03, 2010, 01:55:31 pm
Heh, love the photos!!
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: CellarDweller on September 03, 2010, 11:08:51 pm
Great pics Chrissi!
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: delalluvia on September 06, 2010, 06:35:27 pm
Bizarre.

Now that I live in a house, I keep the bird baths full, so as to keep our local birds from dying of thirst during the long hot summers.

They get used to your water sources, you know?

Well, I'd been neglectful since last week and hadn't filled it in the backyard, so today, when I came home, I noticed a beautiful red cardinal leave the birdbath disappointed.  So, feeling guilty, I filled the bird bath and started the sprinkler.  I don't really water my grass, I just water the various ornamental trees my mother loved.

Well, after an hour, I just now went to peek in the backyard to see if the birds had discovered the watersource and to my astonishment, 15 doves are loitering.  At least 10 are sitting - sitting! - just downwind of the sprinkler, enjoying the cooling breeze, I guess.  The others are sitting in the shade, others wandering around pecking, a blue jay comes in for a quick wash and leaves.

Looks like a bathhouse.  I've NEVER seen them do this.  :o
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: CellarDweller on September 06, 2010, 08:40:35 pm
aw...very cool del!
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: Kelda on September 07, 2010, 05:09:06 pm
pictures please Dev!
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: Front-Ranger on September 07, 2010, 06:01:58 pm
Great stories, dell and Chrissi. I love your new cat, even though he is devious! He looks just like my little Diva! I love tabby cats...they're the best!
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: delalluvia on September 07, 2010, 09:11:58 pm
I stood there watching those birds, wishing I had a camera.   But I don't.  :-\
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: Fran on September 08, 2010, 04:15:00 pm
Now that I live in a house, I keep the bird baths full, so as to keep our local birds from dying of thirst during the long hot summers.

Thanks for looking out for the birds, del. 
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: Front-Ranger on September 09, 2010, 07:25:34 pm
Thanks for looking out for the birds, del. 
I second that!
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: delalluvia on September 18, 2010, 05:55:54 pm
I filled up the birdbath to overflowing the night before and the next morning most of the water was gone and I was like - WTF?  It's not THAT hot.

Last night I happened to look out my back window and found one of the stray cats had leaped onto it and was drinking out of the birdbath as well.  He probably knocks the water out some when he jumps on and off it - it's not real stable.

Being a steward of the animals who share the outdoors with you is rewarding, but worrisome.  When I lived in my apartment, during the winters, to keep my cats from being bored, I used to throw birdseed thickly onto the floor of my balcony.  The birds and squirrels would show up and feast having to suck up the courage to visit knowing my cats would lunge at them from behind the glass doors.  The birds and squirrels got fat off my feedings one winter and when the food ran low and I needed to fill it, one morning I came out and found in the branches of a tree near my balcony a whole little flock of birds waiting.  They were waiting for me to load up the food again.   :o

So you feel bad if you don't live up to their expectations.

I'll probably put up a birdfeeder this winter.  Yeah, I'm a sucker.  
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: Jeff Wrangler on September 21, 2010, 10:09:30 am
Now that I live in a house, I keep the bird baths full, so as to keep our local birds from dying of thirst during the long hot summers.

All summer long, or at least when I visited, my dad's backyard was full of birds. Robins built a nest and raised some babies in one of the dogwoods, wrens raised a couple of broods in the birdhouse, and the feeder and the bird bath constantly attracted cardinals, goldfinches, house finches, chickadees, and, of course, the ubiquitous sparrows.

When I viisted over Labor Day Weekend, it was as if they all had vanished. Not just from my dad's backyard, but from his entire neighborhood! Not a bird to be seen! Not even a starling!  :o  WTF?  ???

Perhaps they had all gone to the country. The local newspaper that weekend had a big story about the harvest coing in a couple of weeks early because of the dry weather, so maybe the pickin's had become better out in the county instead of in my dad's backyard. Who knows? Last week Dad told me the cardinals have returned.  :)
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: Fran on September 22, 2010, 10:41:48 pm
Please keep my Ember in your thoughts tomorrow.  She's going to the animal hospital to be spayed and have her deformed dew claw removed.  (It was removed when she was a couple of days old but it grew back.)  And since she won't feel it, she's also going to be microchipped.

Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: delalluvia on September 23, 2010, 12:11:18 am
Please keep my Ember in your thoughts tomorrow.  She's going to the animal hospital to be spayed and have her deformed dew claw removed.  (It was removed when she was a couple of days old but it grew back.)  And since she won't feel it, she's also going to be microchipped.



How is she?
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: Fran on September 23, 2010, 10:52:45 am
How is she?

I dropped her off at 8 a.m., and I can call for an update after 2:30 p.m.  She should be able to go home by 5. 

Her procedures are pretty routine, but I'm a worrier -- especially since anesthesia is involved.
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: Shasta542 on September 23, 2010, 06:47:58 pm
Please keep my Ember in your thoughts tomorrow.  She's going to the animal hospital to be spayed and have her deformed dew claw removed.  (It was removed when she was a couple of days old but it grew back.)  And since she won't feel it, she's also going to be microchipped.



{{{{{{{{EMBER}}}}}}}}

Hope she's up and about soon!
 
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: Fran on September 23, 2010, 07:34:59 pm
The patient is home and resting comfortably -- well, at least I think she's comfortable.  Poor baby.

(http://i198.photobucket.com/albums/aa188/ffrraann/Ember/photo.jpg)
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: delalluvia on September 23, 2010, 08:41:32 pm
Yay.  She'll be fine.  My cats were up and around the same day.

LOVE that long dog nose.

It needs to be kissed often.   :-*
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: southendmd on September 23, 2010, 09:12:28 pm
Such a sweet face.  I hope she recovers well.  Lotsa kisses from me!
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: Jeff Wrangler on September 23, 2010, 10:06:52 pm
The patient is home and resting comfortably -- well, at least I think she's comfortable.  Poor baby.

(http://i198.photobucket.com/albums/aa188/ffrraann/Ember/photo.jpg)

Aww! What a Sweetie!  :D
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: Front-Ranger on September 23, 2010, 10:09:57 pm
Aww, she's so sweet. My mother has an Italian greyhound, elderly at 12 years old, but still peppy. We received some bad news this week. "Coco" has diabetes, and needs twice-daily insulin shots. My mother seems to be of the opinion that the dog should be "put down" even though she is her loyal and constant companion. Privately, I am heartbroken about this decision, and am hoping I can talk my mom into keeping Coco and administering the injections. After all, it's my mom's fault that the dog has diabetes, since she has fed her table scraps and all manner of bad stuff, so much that Coco didn't even look like a greyhound any more (of course, I didn't bring this up with my mom). Has anyone had experience with a dog who has diabetes? How much trouble is it, actually?
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: Fran on September 23, 2010, 10:47:53 pm
Aww, she's so sweet. My mother has an Italian greyhound, elderly at 12 years old, but still peppy. We received some bad news this week. "Coco" has diabetes, and needs twice-daily insulin shots. My mother seems to be of the opinion that the dog should be "put down" even though she is her loyal and constant companion.

FRiendLee,

So sorry to hear about Coco.  :(

I don't know anything about canine diabetes, but I imagine lots of monitoring is involved and, as you said, the twice-daily insulin shots.  Maybe your mom feels that it's more than she can handle right now.  Poor Coco.  Poor Mom.
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: Shasta542 on September 24, 2010, 02:47:01 am
Aww, she's so sweet. My mother has an Italian greyhound, elderly at 12 years old, but still peppy. We received some bad news this week. "Coco" has diabetes, and needs twice-daily insulin shots. My mother seems to be of the opinion that the dog should be "put down" even though she is her loyal and constant companion. Privately, I am heartbroken about this decision, and am hoping I can talk my mom into keeping Coco and administering the injections. After all, it's my mom's fault that the dog has diabetes, since she has fed her table scraps and all manner of bad stuff, so much that Coco didn't even look like a greyhound any more (of course, I didn't bring this up with my mom). Has anyone had experience with a dog who has diabetes? How much trouble is it, actually?

I just talked to my best friend on Wednesday. She has 8 dogs and learned last week that her Yorkie will have the same--2 insulin shots for the rest of his life. She has been giving them and she said it's not hard. The insulin is human insulin. If the dog is still able to get around and eat, she should have good quality of life with the meds.
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: Front-Ranger on September 24, 2010, 09:38:31 am
That's reassuring to hear, Shasta! Thank you! I'll continue to try to talk my mom into it. Honestly, if she didn't have the dog to take care of, she wouldn't have hardly anything to do!
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: Penthesilea on September 24, 2010, 02:16:14 pm
What a cute photo of Ember. I hope she's up and back to being fit as a fiddle today!
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: Jeff Wrangler on September 24, 2010, 02:20:30 pm
I'm sure it's an awful thing when a beloved pet becomes ill, especially chronically ill. I watched my friend John go through this when his Dalmatian, Amadeus, who was about Coco's age, developed, er, incurable bladder problems. It was sad for John and sad for Amadeus.  :(

Based on my observations of his experience, I can sympathize with you and your mother, Lee, but, again based on my observation, there are difficult questions to be addressed here. This isn't just a matter of your mother giving Coco a shot twice a day.

Can Coco's vet offer any guidance as to what her life expectancy is now? What about her quality of life? What kind of an emotional burden would it be on your mother to administer the injections twice a day--or can you stop by twice a day and give Coco her shots? And what kind of a financial burden would this place on your mother if she has to pay for twice-daily insulin for Coco for an indefinite period?

Or can you take Coco into your home and care for her?  :D
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: Penthesilea on September 24, 2010, 02:22:08 pm
Lee, I have no first-hand experience of canine diabetes. But I used to be in a dog owners' forum, and what I heard there matches what Shasta says.
In any case, it's at least worth a try. As long as the vet thinks it's ok, then it is.
Didn't your mother already want the dog to be put down earlier this year?
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: Fran on September 24, 2010, 02:54:11 pm
FR-Lee, if your mom is adamant about "putting down" Coco, is there room for her at your house?  (Coco, not your mom.  :))

It seems that the lifespan of Italian greyhounds is 12-15 years.  Of course, there are always exceptions.
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: Fran on September 24, 2010, 03:17:39 pm
Ember is much improved from yesterday but still quite sleepy thanks to her pain meds.  She goes back to the vet tomorrow to get her leg bandage changed.  The sutures from the dew claw removal will be removed in two weeks.  She's been good about not chewing/licking her bandage...so far.  I did put a little Bitter Apple on it so it is less appealing.  I also have the plastic E-collar -- one of these things:

(http://i198.photobucket.com/albums/aa188/ffrraann/movies/dog_elizabethan_collar-1-1.gif)

-- she wore home from the vet's office on display, so she has a visual reminder of what she will be wearing if she's unable to leave her bandage alone.
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: Fran on September 26, 2010, 11:06:08 am
The vet thinks that Ember has been licking her spaying incision, so it's come to this:

(http://i198.photobucket.com/albums/aa188/ffrraann/Ember/photo-1.jpg)

If looks could kill....

Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: Shasta542 on September 26, 2010, 11:13:44 am
The vet thinks that Ember has been licking her spaying incision, so it's come to this:

(http://i198.photobucket.com/albums/aa188/ffrraann/Ember/photo-1.jpg)

If looks could kill....



Poor sweetie! She'll heal fast and the collar will be soon forgotten! :)
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: delalluvia on September 26, 2010, 12:06:03 pm
Poor Ember!

She looks like Queen Elizabeth I

We are NOT amused.  :laugh: :laugh:
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: Penthesilea on September 26, 2010, 12:17:00 pm
Personally, I think the owners tend to take the collar harder than the dogs. I believe if you don't make any ballyhoo about it ("Oh my poor, poor doggie, that stupid, horrible collar..." - you get the picture) dogs get used to it very quickly and are barely bothered by it. But then, sighthounds are said to be sensitive - and who doesn't like to make some ballyhoo about their dog from time to time? ;)
Tell us how Ember takes the collar, willya, Fran?
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: Front-Ranger on September 27, 2010, 10:08:13 pm
Personally, I think the owners tend to take the collar harder than the dogs. I believe if you don't make any ballyhoo about it ("Oh my poor, poor doggie, that stupid, horrible collar..." - you get the picture) dogs get used to it very quickly and are barely bothered by it. But then, sighthounds are said to be sensitive - and who doesn't like to make some ballyhoo about their dog from time to time? ;)
Tell us how Ember takes the collar, willya, Fran?

That is so true, friend! My mother makes a big fuss over her dog, and her dog in turn makes a big fuss over my mom. But when I'm with her dog, it's just very straightforward. I tell her what I want her to do, she does it, and I pet her and say, "good Coco." Simple as pie!

The good news is that I think my mom has decided to put off "putting down" Coco and is waiting to see how she does. Coco seems to be doing just fine. Ember reminds me so much of Coco, but with darker coloring.
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: Fran on September 28, 2010, 06:03:18 pm
Ember reminds me so much of Coco, but with darker coloring.


Lee, if you get a chance, please post a picture of Coco.  I'd love to see what she looks like.
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: Front-Ranger on September 28, 2010, 09:00:12 pm
Here is the sweet girl:
(http://www.divshare.com/img/12682289-de7.JPG)

Well, my mother changed her mind again today (actually I think she had her mind made up all along and I was just wasting my breath). Coco is just a memory now. I got a terse email from my mom about 3:30 today "I'm going to say good-bye at 6:30 pm" and I left work early to go over, but I got caught in rush hour and didn't arrive until 10 minutes before Mom had to leave to take Coco to the vet's. After making a last-ditch plea to spare Coco's life, I gave up and took the dog for one last run in the meadow. We sniffed the flowers, chased a rabbit, did our business (her, not me!) and enjoyed the sunset. I left Mom and Coco with my daughter, who graciously volunteered to escort them to the vet, because I didn't feel up to it. Tears were streaming down my face...the last time I remember crying like that was 2000 after the election.

Ironically, Coco was healthier than ever during her last few weeks. She had lost weight and could run again. The vet had prescribed special food which was doing her good. Her main problem was cataracts caused by the diabetes, which made her sight fuzzy. But dogs can get by very well on their sense of smell. Try telling that to mom, however. You might as well talk to a brick wall.  :'(
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: southendmd on September 28, 2010, 09:59:42 pm
Oh, Lee, I'm so sorry.  I'm glad you got to spend quality romping time witih her though. 
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: Front-Ranger on September 28, 2010, 10:04:18 pm
Oh, Lee, I'm so sorry.  I'm glad you got to spend quality romping time witih her though. 

Thanks friend! Yes, I have to remember the romps.
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: Shasta542 on September 28, 2010, 10:09:19 pm
Sad.  :'(

Sorry, Lee.
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: Fran on September 28, 2010, 10:12:07 pm
Here is the sweet girl:
(http://www.divshare.com/img/12682289-de7.JPG)

Well, my mother changed her mind again today....

Oh, Lee.  I'm so sorry.  I don't know what to say.  It just seems so...sudden.  Poor Coco.  Poor you.   :'(

I'm glad that you thought to take Coco for that last run.  I bet she really enjoyed those minutes with you in the meadow.  Maybe thinking about that last bit of happiness you gave her will help you feel better.  I can perfectly understand why you weren't able to go to the vet.  I doubt that I would be able to, either.

Thanks for posting the photo.  She looks like a very, very sweet dog and so trusting.  Who wouldn't love her?

Again, I'm so sorry for your loss. 

Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: Front-Ranger on September 29, 2010, 08:52:27 am
Thank you Shasta and Fran. Yes, you read her very well, Fran. She was a very trusting dog. When it was time for her to go for a walk, she dutifully raised each paw in turn so they could be guided into her harness. The legs and paws of an Italian greyhound are almost impossibly delicate. And, she was so very loyal to my mother. When I gave her a last good-bye petting at the door, she just turned around and left me to see where Mom was. I don't blame my mom for the way things turned out, but I just feel like screaming, nevertheless!!
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: Penthesilea on September 29, 2010, 11:28:04 am
I'm very sorry to thear this. Glad though that you took her for a last walk.
(((Lee))) :-*
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: Sason on September 29, 2010, 01:35:40 pm
I'm sorry to hear about your mom's dog, Lee.

I'm sure she enjoyed her last walk with you!
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: Jeff Wrangler on September 29, 2010, 02:20:29 pm
Thank you Shasta and Fran. Yes, you read her very well, Fran. She was a very trusting dog. When it was time for her to go for a walk, she dutifully raised each paw in turn so they could be guided into her harness. The legs and paws of an Italian greyhound are almost impossibly delicate. And, she was so very loyal to my mother. When I gave her a last good-bye petting at the door, she just turned around and left me to see where Mom was. I don't blame my mom for the way things turned out, but I just feel like screaming, nevertheless!!

I'm sorry for your pain.  :(
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: delalluvia on September 29, 2010, 08:45:56 pm
I'm so so sorry for your loss and for Coco.  :'( :'( :'(
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: CellarDweller on October 01, 2010, 10:15:09 am
Oh Lee, I'm sorry that you had to lose Coco.

((((Big hugs))))
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: Front-Ranger on October 01, 2010, 10:48:06 am
Thank you, friends. I haven't been able to go over to my mom's house since then. My daughter is staying in close touch with her.

I have something fun scheduled on Satruday...a tour of Denver chicken coops!!
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: Jeff Wrangler on October 01, 2010, 11:28:15 am
I have something fun scheduled on Satruday...a tour of Denver chicken coops!!

Wear a surgical mask. You might inhale something dangerous.  :P
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: JackyTwist on October 02, 2010, 02:12:21 pm
Hi! I have a pet as well. A parrot; an African Grey or in Dutch grijze roodstaart. His name is Harley and he talks a lot. He even made it to our local newspaper http://www.deweekkrant.nl/files/pdfarchief/ZDB/20090930/ZBR_ZDB-1-21_090930_1.pdf (http://www.deweekkrant.nl/files/pdfarchief/ZDB/20090930/ZBR_ZDB-1-21_090930_1.pdf)on october 4th 'pet day'. He has an enormous cage in my livingroom; with swing, bath, several sticks and other toys, a lot of balls to play with and extra stairs to climb up the cage in case he accidentally falls to the ground. I have him for 8 years now, and he is 20 years old.
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: delalluvia on October 02, 2010, 03:49:38 pm
Hi! I have a pet as well. A parrot; an African Grey or in Dutch grijze roodstaart. His name is Harley and he talks a lot. He even made it to our local newspaper http://www.deweekkrant.nl/files/pdfarchief/ZDB/20090930/ZBR_ZDB-1-21_090930_1.pdf (http://www.deweekkrant.nl/files/pdfarchief/ZDB/20090930/ZBR_ZDB-1-21_090930_1.pdf)on october 4th 'pet day'. He has an enormous cage in my livingroom; with swing, bath, several sticks and other toys, a lot of balls to play with and extra stairs to climb up the cage in case he accidentally falls to the ground. I have him for 8 years now, and he is 20 years old.

Welcome Jacky!  Does he keep you up nights talking?
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: JackyTwist on October 03, 2010, 02:50:50 am
Welcome Jacky!  Does he keep you up nights talking?
Hi delalluvia, no not at night. He got his own day-night rhythm. He even announces that he is going to sleep: "I'm going to sleep now" and climbs on to his sleeping branch! But in the morning, at about 07:30 he is awake and climbs on to the door of his cage and start calling me: "Joehoe, are you upstairs? Sleeping? Where are you? You can come now." If I really want him to be quiet, I have to close the curtains the night before; that works allways. He's a funny guy! I would like to upload a photo of him in a tent, but I don't know how to do that.  :'(
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: CellarDweller on October 28, 2010, 08:24:58 pm
ATTENTION!!  VERY IMPORTANT!!  Don't forget that "Mischief Night" or "Devil's Night" is coming.  Sickos will take unattended animals and harm or kill them for "fun" because of that night.  Animals owners, keep your pets inside the next few nights, or when they're out, keep a close eye on them!
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: Fran on October 28, 2010, 11:18:44 pm
ATTENTION!!  VERY IMPORTANT!!  Don't forget that "Mischief Night" or "Devil's Night" is coming.  Sickos will take unattended animals and harm or kill them for "fun" because of that night.  Animals owners, keep your pets inside the next few nights, or when they're out, keep a close eye on them!

Thanks for the reminder.  Better safe than sorry.

On a happier note, here's Ember -- a little camera-shy today -- modeling her new coat:

(http://i198.photobucket.com/albums/aa188/ffrraann/Ember/photo-2-1-1-1.jpg)
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: Shasta542 on October 29, 2010, 07:25:02 am
Thanks for the reminder.  Better safe than sorry.

On a happier note, here's Ember -- a little camera-shy today -- modeling her new coat:

(http://i198.photobucket.com/albums/aa188/ffrraann/Ember/photo-2-1-1-1.jpg)

Cute, Ember! Chic and cozy. :)
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: CellarDweller on October 29, 2010, 07:41:03 am
lol!

I love when people dress their pets up like that!  Soooooo cute!
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: delalluvia on October 30, 2010, 07:47:11 pm
 :laugh: :laugh:

Tres chic, Ember.
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: Fran on October 30, 2010, 08:47:51 pm
(http://i198.photobucket.com/albums/aa188/ffrraann/Ember/IMG_0266_6.jpg)


Wishing you a wickedly wonderful Halloween!
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: Kelda on October 31, 2010, 05:19:12 pm
***Loooovvveee* Ember here!
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: southendmd on November 19, 2010, 10:10:10 am
(http://i136.photobucket.com/albums/q186/southendmd/misc/jessyeasleepcape.jpg)

Goodbye, our "Bunny".  Thank you for sharing your life with us. 
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: CellarDweller on November 19, 2010, 10:16:47 am
((((Big Brother Paul))))

Sorry!  I remember meeting her when I stayed with you in Boston, such a sweet kitty.
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: Sason on November 19, 2010, 10:18:48 am
I'm so sorry ((((( Paul )))))  :'( :'(

She was such a sweet little kitty.
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: Fran on November 19, 2010, 11:39:06 am
I'm sorry for your loss, Paul.   These gentle companions leave us way too soon.
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: southendmd on November 19, 2010, 02:55:42 pm
Thanks, Chuck and Sonja.  She was very sweet, and she had a good life.  I'm glad you both got to meet her.

Thanks, Fran.  Your'e so right; since we got her from the rescue, we had her almost ten years.
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: SuperDistortion on November 19, 2010, 04:02:07 pm
So sorry for your loss, Paul.  I don't know why I thought her name was Buddy.  What a great picture of Bunny.  Fran is so right about them leaving too soon.
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: southendmd on November 19, 2010, 09:00:12 pm
Well, Bunny was my Buddy, after all. 

Her real name was Jessye, but we always called her Bunny.  Mostly because of how she bounced down stairs like a rabbit. 
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: delalluvia on November 19, 2010, 09:29:01 pm
So so so sorry for your loss.  :'( :'(
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: southendmd on November 19, 2010, 10:52:25 pm
Thanks, del.  Nice of you.
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: Lynne on November 19, 2010, 11:37:50 pm
Paulie - I am so sorry for your loss.  Bunny was the sweetest of kitties, and you and Joey were the best people for her.   I am so so sad for you both tonight. 

  :'( :'( :'( :'(


Please let me know if there's anything you need, my Friend.
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: memento on November 20, 2010, 01:58:03 am
So very sorry for your loss, Paul.
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: Penthesilea on November 20, 2010, 08:24:09 am
I'm very sorry to hear of your loss.
What a cute cat. It's one of the wrongs in the world, that our cats and dogs are given such a short life-span (paraphrasing form whoever). The moment we take in a cute furry bundle, we're destined for the heartbreak that will come always too soon. :(
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: Kelda on November 21, 2010, 01:17:40 pm
Sorry to hear about Bunny Paul

 :'( :'( :'(

*hugs*
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: southendmd on November 21, 2010, 08:38:56 pm
Thank you, Lynne, Sandy, Chrissi and Kelda.
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: ifyoucantfixit on November 21, 2010, 09:15:36 pm
     

   I am terribly sorry for the pain you are going through now Paul.  I am so glad
you got her from a shelter.  We got all three of our pets from adoption.  Two from
the shelter, and one from just serendipitous encounter.  That would be our
three legged cat Bob.  We have had our Buddy for 11 years now, and we got a new
little girl about six months ago.  She is a llasa Apso and so loving.  She is very young
and hopefully we will have many years with her.
   When you adopt from the shelters at least you give them a very lengthy life compared with what they could have been sentenced to.  You gave her a home and love.  What
else is important?  In return you got back many fold love and friendship.
   I love and support you and hope you soon may see her as happily spending her days
in another part of her life and looking down to see you.  Janice
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: Fran on December 15, 2010, 11:36:23 am
E Card (http://ak.imgag.com/imgag/product/preview/flash/pdShell.swf?ihost=http://ak.imgag.com/imgag&brandldrPath=/product/full/el/&cardNum=/product/full/ap/3173936/graphic1)

(Ember would have eaten all of the cookies.)
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: Fran on December 15, 2010, 11:39:04 am
(http://i198.photobucket.com/albums/aa188/ffrraann/Ember/Picture46.png)
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: Front-Ranger on December 15, 2010, 01:46:00 pm
Adorable!!
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: Front-Ranger on December 15, 2010, 01:48:22 pm
Whoa, Paul, I'm just now hearing about Bunny...hopefully she's giving a big warm welcome to Rodney!
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: Penthesilea on December 16, 2010, 02:12:28 am
E Card (http://ak.imgag.com/imgag/product/preview/flash/pdShell.swf?ihost=http://ak.imgag.com/imgag&brandldrPath=/product/full/el/&cardNum=/product/full/ap/3173936/graphic1)

(Ember would have eaten all of the cookies.)


Aww, cute!
Loved the light strings on the doghouse.
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: Penthesilea on December 16, 2010, 02:15:06 am
(http://i198.photobucket.com/albums/aa188/ffrraann/Ember/Picture46.png)


Even cuter! :)
With her light colored fur and those huge round eyes, she looks like a baby seal. How can you resist on spoiling her rotten?
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: CellarDweller on December 16, 2010, 07:36:44 am
great pic of Ember!
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: southendmd on December 16, 2010, 10:09:08 am
Thanks for the kind words, Janice and Lee.  There just may be a new bunny this Christmas.

Fran, I love the ecard and the sweet photo of Ember.
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: Fran on December 16, 2010, 08:11:11 pm
Thanks for the nice comments about my Ember's Christmas photo.  On the whippet board I frequent, the consensus seemed to be that she was giving me the stink eye.  Poor dog doesn't realize that there are also some antlers with her name on them -- well, as soon as I finish the alterations.  :)

There just may be a new bunny this Christmas.

Now that's great news.  What a purr-fect present!
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: CellarDweller on December 22, 2010, 10:11:47 pm

I know that cat owners will appreciate and understand this video.

 :laugh: :laugh: :laugh:

[youtube=425,350]http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nn2h3_aH3vo[/youtube]
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: Jeff Wrangler on December 22, 2010, 10:40:28 pm
There was a story on our local evening news this evening about a weeks-old kitten that was brought into the SPCA. Poor thing had gotten stuck on one of those glue-type rodent traps. The woman from the SPCA said she needed lots of bathing with mild dish soap(!). She's going to be OK, however, and her new people have nicknamed her Mouse.  ;D
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: Front-Ranger on December 23, 2010, 12:05:10 am
Clever video!! Aww, Jeff!  :P
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: Jeff Wrangler on December 23, 2010, 02:37:49 am
Aww, Jeff!  :P

Oh, you should have seen the film of her when she was first brought in to the SPCA. I'm not particularly a cat person, but it was just heartbreaking.
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: Fran on December 23, 2010, 03:51:25 pm
There was a story on our local evening news this evening about a weeks-old kitten that was brought into the SPCA. Poor thing had gotten stuck on one of those glue-type rodent traps. The woman from the SPCA said she needed lots of bathing with mild dish soap(!). She's going to be OK, however, and her new people have nicknamed her Mouse.  ;D

Glad to hear she's going to be OK.  Those glue boards are nasty.
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: Fran on December 23, 2010, 03:56:08 pm
As promised, Ember's antlers.  :)

(http://i198.photobucket.com/albums/aa188/ffrraann/IMG_0300-1.jpg)
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: southendmd on December 23, 2010, 04:54:10 pm
Awwww, she's adorable, and a good sport!
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: Penthesilea on December 23, 2010, 05:23:09 pm
As promised, Ember's antlers.  :)

(http://i198.photobucket.com/albums/aa188/ffrraann/IMG_0300-1.jpg)


You crazy human. ;)
Nah, it's cute. :)
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: Front-Ranger on December 23, 2010, 06:20:01 pm
As promised, Ember's antlers.  :)

(http://i198.photobucket.com/albums/aa188/ffrraann/IMG_0300-1.jpg)

Great composition! Love it!
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: Kelda on December 24, 2010, 02:02:08 pm
Ha she looks cute but not happy!!!  ;D
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: Shasta542 on December 24, 2010, 03:09:14 pm
As promised, Ember's antlers.  :)

(http://i198.photobucket.com/albums/aa188/ffrraann/IMG_0300-1.jpg)

Awww, Ember~~she is sooooo cute. Those are nice antlers. But I can tell that you are getting on her last nerve with the picture-taking/dressing up!! LOL!
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: Fran on December 28, 2010, 02:12:30 am
Awww, Ember~~she is sooooo cute. Those are nice antlers. But I can tell that you are getting on her last nerve with the picture-taking/dressing up!! LOL!

Yep.  If looks could kill, I'd already be dead.   ;)
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: delalluvia on January 03, 2011, 09:59:59 pm
I've been feeding my local birds, with seed, stale chips and bread, crumbling it up small, so the local stray cats and dogs don't get to all of it.

I dumped some crushed chips out there early this evening and just now, as I went to shut my miniblinds, I looked out and saw a possum happily munching away.  ;D
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: Penthesilea on January 04, 2011, 07:12:19 am
I've been feeding my local birds, with seed, stale chips and bread, crumbling it up small, so the local stray cats and dogs don't get to all of it.

I dumped some crushed chips out there early this evening and just now, as I went to shut my miniblinds, I looked out and saw a possum happily munching away.  ;D

Next thing I knew, I was feeding all the critters out there ....

(http://i575.photobucket.com/albums/ss192/Penthesilea09/d10deca5.jpg)

I bet your possum was very happy. :)
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: Fran on January 04, 2011, 11:52:55 am
I bet your possum was very happy. :)

...and appreciative!
(http://i198.photobucket.com/albums/aa188/ffrraann/movies/possum.jpg)
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: delalluvia on January 04, 2011, 03:13:44 pm
 :laugh: :laugh: :laugh: :laugh:

He should like tonight's offering.  Stale cornbread leftover from New Years!
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: CellarDweller on January 13, 2011, 09:50:48 pm
New math: One cat with claws + one plastic bag filled with shredded documents = mess in the dining room and one angry mother.

Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: Fran on January 14, 2011, 12:09:36 am
New math: One cat with claws + one plastic bag filled with shredded documents = mess in the dining room and one angry mother.

Hopefully the mess was contained in one room.  Bet the cat had fun.  :)
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: delalluvia on January 14, 2011, 01:36:22 am
Hopefully the mess was contained in one room.  Bet the cat had fun.  :)

Yep.  The cat is probably going

(http://icanhascheezburger.files.wordpress.com/2010/11/funny-pictures-cat-asks-if-you-are-mad.jpg) (http://icanhascheezburger.com/2007/04/06/you-still-mad-2/)
see more Lolcats and funny pictures (http://icanhascheezburger.com)
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: Penthesilea on January 14, 2011, 01:57:09 am
New math: One cat with claws + one plastic bag filled with shredded documents = mess in the dining room and one angry mother.

Oh, I can imagine the mess. :laugh:
For a while, my Cäsar liked to kill rolls of toilet paper. He shredded them himself.
Maybe I should get him a job in some office? ;)


What does it say about my cat, when not showing up at the dinner table is reason for alarm? ::)
The little guy is such a greedy chowhound that I knew something wasn't right when he didn't show up in the kitchen last night at dinner (our dinner, that is). Indeed one of the kids had accidently locked him into the bathroom.
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: David In Indy on January 14, 2011, 04:38:00 am
As promised, Ember's antlers.  :)

(http://i198.photobucket.com/albums/aa188/ffrraann/IMG_0300-1.jpg)


Awwww how cute!! I just now saw this!! But I agree with the others, she doesn't look too happy about it! lol

What a cute dog, Fran! :-*
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: David In Indy on January 14, 2011, 04:44:58 am
I took these last summer. I don't think I've posted any of them yet.

The raccoons come up to the deck each evening looking for food. I always leave something out for them. At first they were fairly skitterish, but now they will jump up in my lap if I'm sitting outside when they come. It's awfully cold outside now though, so I haven't been doing it lately. If I am late to take food out to them they will paw at the windows....


(http://i77.photobucket.com/albums/j43/Davidindy/animals/Raccoon10a.jpg)



(http://i77.photobucket.com/albums/j43/Davidindy/animals/Raccoon12a.jpg)



(http://i77.photobucket.com/albums/j43/Davidindy/animals/raccoon4.jpg)



Close-up....

(http://i77.photobucket.com/albums/j43/Davidindy/animals/raccoon7.jpg)




Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: CellarDweller on January 14, 2011, 09:26:19 am
It's been a while since I posted pics of Blaze here, so I tried to take some shots with my Blackberry.

The flash really did a number on his eyes!





(http://i327.photobucket.com/albums/k463/dcfmod/blaze1.jpg)
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: CellarDweller on January 14, 2011, 09:27:36 am
(http://i327.photobucket.com/albums/k463/dcfmod/blaze2.jpg)
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: Penthesilea on January 14, 2011, 11:15:59 am
(http://i327.photobucket.com/albums/k463/dcfmod/blaze2.jpg)

I'd be afraid, very afraid, if I had a cat with headlight eyes. :o ;)
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: Penthesilea on January 14, 2011, 11:30:14 am
I took these last summer. I don't think I've posted any of them yet.

The raccoons come up to the deck each evening looking for food. I always leave something out for them. At first they were fairly skitterish, but now they will jump up in my lap if I'm sitting outside when they come. It's awfully cold outside now though, so I haven't been doing it lately. If I am late to take food out to them they will paw at the windows....


(http://i77.photobucket.com/albums/j43/Davidindy/animals/Raccoon10a.jpg)  (http://i77.photobucket.com/albums/j43/Davidindy/animals/Raccoon12a.jpg)



(http://i77.photobucket.com/albums/j43/Davidindy/animals/raccoon4.jpg)   Close-up....(http://i77.photobucket.com/albums/j43/Davidindy/animals/raccoon7.jpg)


This is so cute! :D  Especially the close-up.
They get tame enough to jump on your lap? Be careful though that you don't get scratched or bitten.
Aren't you a little worried for your cat?
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: Front-Ranger on January 14, 2011, 12:46:41 pm
Racoon stories...one summer evening I was trying to get my young cat Diva to come in the house so I stuck my head out the window and called "here kitty kitty". A head popped up from behind the deck but she just looked at me so I repeated "here kitty kitty!" Lo and behold, another head popped up, that of a young racoon she had been getting acquainted with!

Another time we heard a noise in the garage. Husband went out to investigate with a flashlight and baseball bat. Not finding anyone, he went closer to the trash can, which was vibrating slightly. Tapping it on the side with a bat roused a racoon that climbed out and slunk off...and then another...and another...In all there were six racoons in that trash can! It was like watching clowns climb out of a VW!
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: Fran on January 14, 2011, 12:49:58 pm
The raccoons come up to the deck each evening looking for food. I always leave something out for them. At first they were fairly skitterish, but now they will jump up in my lap if I'm sitting outside when they come. It's awfully cold outside now though, so I haven't been doing it lately. If I am late to take food out to them they will paw at the windows....

David, please be careful around the raccoons.  I'd hate for you to get scratched or bitten.  Yours are certainly not camera shy!

I know firsthand that you definitely do not want raccoons to gain entry to your house.  Several years ago we had some in the space between the roof and the ceiling at our house in Michigan.  We realized they were there when we heard acorns rolling across what would be the other side of the ceiling in our bedroom.  We ended up calling an exterminator to get rid of them.

Oh, and here's a happier photo of Ember:  :)

(http://i198.photobucket.com/albums/aa188/ffrraann/Ember/IMG_0330.jpg)
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: Fran on January 14, 2011, 12:53:56 pm
Racoon stories...one summer evening I was trying to get my young cat Diva to come in the house so I stuck my head out the window and called "here kitty kitty".

FRLee, I thought your story was going to end like this one LOL:

[youtube=425,350]http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CZOeWFBy75A[/youtube]
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: Front-Ranger on January 14, 2011, 01:10:28 pm
Haha!! Great commercial!

Oh, and thanks for the happy photo of Ember...really made my morning!
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: Penthesilea on January 14, 2011, 01:51:06 pm
Racoon stories...one summer evening I was trying to get my young cat Diva to come in the house so I stuck my head out the window and called "here kitty kitty". A head popped up from behind the deck but she just looked at me so I repeated "here kitty kitty!" Lo and behold, another head popped up, that of a young racoon she had been getting acquainted with!

Another time we heard a noise in the garage. Husband went out to investigate with a flashlight and baseball bat. Not finding anyone, he went closer to the trash can, which was vibrating slightly. Tapping it on the side with a bat roused a racoon that climbed out and slunk off...and then another...and another...In all there were six racoons in that trash can! It was like watching clowns climb out of a VW!


 :D great stories, both of them. LOL about the clown car trash can. :laugh:
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: Jeff Wrangler on January 14, 2011, 02:42:25 pm
Did anybody else see the film, on the Today show this morning, of the rat running up some guy's body in the New York City subway?  :P

Next time I'm in New York, I think I'll take a cab. ...  8)
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: Fran on January 14, 2011, 03:21:01 pm
Did anybody else see the film, on the Today show this morning, of the rat running up some guy's body in the New York City subway?  :P

Next time I'm in New York, I think I'll take a cab. ...  8)

Jeff, was it this one:

[youtube=425,350]http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mqL964PikeM[/youtube]

Yikes!

Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: Jeff Wrangler on January 14, 2011, 03:48:11 pm
Jeff, was it this one:

[youtube=425,350]http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mqL964PikeM[/youtube]

Yikes!



Eeew, yes! That's it!  :P
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: David In Indy on January 14, 2011, 03:59:36 pm

This is so cute! :D  Especially the close-up.
They get tame enough to jump on your lap? Be careful though that you don't get scratched or bitten.
Aren't you a little worried for your cat?

Chrissi, Oreo never goes outside so he and the raccoons don't ever meet face to face. :)

Fran, I'll be careful! Promise!

Lee, I enjoyed reading your raccoon stories! lol

Chuck, I love your kitty headlight pictures!
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: southendmd on January 14, 2011, 07:13:45 pm
It's been a while since I posted pics of Blaze here, so I tried to take some shots with my Blackberry.

The flash really did a number on his eyes!

(http://i327.photobucket.com/albums/k463/dcfmod/blaze1.jpg)

(http://icanhascheezburger.files.wordpress.com/2010/04/funny-pictures-cat-was-startled.jpg)

(http://icanhascheezburger.files.wordpress.com/2010/11/efe9e230-3fca-42a2-b950-83cc10d9a94e.jpg)
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: Front-Ranger on January 14, 2011, 08:38:39 pm
Blaze is well named!
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: delalluvia on January 14, 2011, 10:29:33 pm
Great pics and great stories!

Ember...she's my sweetie!!!

Y'all watch them raccoons.  And watch 'em close.  They can carry rabies.  :-\
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: David In Indy on January 15, 2011, 02:59:41 am
It's been a while since I posted pics of Blaze here, so I tried to take some shots with my Blackberry.

The flash really did a number on his eyes!





(http://i327.photobucket.com/albums/k463/dcfmod/blaze1.jpg)


Blaze cat with his eyes so bright, he'll guide Chuckie's way tonight... :laugh:

You should use him for a flashlight Chuck! At least you'll never trip over him when you get out of bed. Don't we wish our kitteh's eyes shined like that all the time, huh? 8)
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: Fran on January 17, 2011, 11:48:19 am
Today we're celebrating the first anniversary
of a very special "Gotcha Day" at our house!


(http://i198.photobucket.com/albums/aa188/ffrraann/Ember/photo-5-1-1.jpg)
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: southendmd on January 17, 2011, 01:33:29 pm
There's a new whippet at our house!

I am thrilled to announce the arrival of

Ember

(http://i198.photobucket.com/albums/aa188/ffrraann/Ember/IMGP0718-2-1.jpg)

She's four-and-a-half months old and a real sweetheart.  I'm in heaven!

Happy First Ember Anniversary!
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: delalluvia on January 17, 2011, 02:15:23 pm
Today we're celebrating the first anniversary
of a very special "Gotcha Day" at our house!


(http://i198.photobucket.com/albums/aa188/ffrraann/Ember/photo-5-1-1.jpg)

 :-* :-* :-* :-* :-* :-*
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: Shasta542 on January 17, 2011, 08:35:14 pm
The neighbors just told me that they have been seeing a big gray and white coyote in their yards the past couple of weeks!! Yikes!! My cat goes in and out. Now that I've found out .... she has to stay in. I went and left a note for the neighbor across the street. She has a little toy poodle that she lets roam. Scary!
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: Shasta542 on January 17, 2011, 08:39:37 pm
(http://icanhascheezburger.files.wordpress.com/2007/10/128343497874687500happyannive.jpg)

Happy Anniversary to Ember and the Fam! :)
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: CellarDweller on January 17, 2011, 09:10:31 pm
The neighbors just told me that they have been seeing a big gray and white coyote in their yards the past couple of weeks!! Yikes!! My cat goes in and out. Now that I've found out .... she has to stay in. I went and left a note for the neighbor across the street. She has a little toy poodle that she lets roam. Scary!

whoa.....not cool.  I'm glad you are able to keep your cat in, and that you left a note for your neighbor.

I hope it moves on shortly, and things can go back to normal.
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: Shasta542 on January 17, 2011, 09:56:03 pm
whoa.....not cool.  I'm glad you are able to keep your cat in, and that you left a note for your neighbor.

I hope it moves on shortly, and things can go back to normal.

First I went over to tell her. But she didn't open the door. I was just going to tell her from the porch; not go in or anything. She is very unfriendly--not mean, just not sociable. I could hear her shushing the dog. LOL. But...I wanted her to know about the coyote, so I went back over with the note.

Yeah. Not much chance it'll go away if it's able to get food around here. But I hope it does go back to the woods before it gets shot.  One neighbor who told me about it said that her husband was going to get a permit to shoot the coyote. They have a little chihuahua and 3 young children and no fence.
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: Fran on January 18, 2011, 12:08:54 am
Shasta, be careful around that coyote.  Wow!  David with his raccoons, del with her possum, and now you with your coyote.  I'm going to be busy  worrying about everybody.  Where I'm at, the only problem is the rats, but at least I don't have to worry about them eating Ember.  

Speaking of Ember, can't believe that I've had her for a whole year now.  Time sure flies when you're having fun!  Thanks, Paul, del, and Shasta for acknowledging our special day.   :-*
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: Penthesilea on January 18, 2011, 02:12:34 am
Happy anniversary Fran and Ember!

I think I've never seen such baby seal eyes in a dog but Ember. *melts*
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: David In Indy on January 18, 2011, 02:37:27 am
Today we're celebrating the first anniversary
of a very special "Gotcha Day" at our house!


(http://i198.photobucket.com/albums/aa188/ffrraann/Ember/photo-5-1-1.jpg)


Awww! What a cute picture!!! :-*

Congratulations on your special day, Fran and Ember!!! 8)
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: David In Indy on January 18, 2011, 02:43:07 am
First I went over to tell her. But she didn't open the door. I was just going to tell her from the porch; not go in or anything. She is very unfriendly--not mean, just not sociable. I could hear her shushing the dog. LOL. But...I wanted her to know about the coyote, so I went back over with the note.

Yeah. Not much chance it'll go away if it's able to get food around here. But I hope it does go back to the woods before it gets shot.  One neighbor who told me about it said that her husband was going to get a permit to shoot the coyote. They have a little chihuahua and 3 young children and no fence.



We have a big coyote problem here too, Shasta. Bobcats and (can you believe this) now Mountain Lions also. Who would have ever thought there'd be Mountain Lions in Indianapolis? We've always had coyotes here and a few bobcats from time to time, but MOUNTAIN LIONS? Anyway, there it is. :-\   You really have to watch your animals around those coyotes. Cody took off after one last fall and I was scared to death. He came back in one piece though. I was relieved. Many people here with smaller pets than Cody keep them in and always walk them on a leash. That's a good idea imo. Be careful Shasta!
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: Kelda on January 18, 2011, 03:23:06 pm
Glad you found out so you can keep kitty safe Shasta!
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: memento on January 18, 2011, 05:09:01 pm
(http://www.frankiebaby.co.uk/images/uploads/stripydog.JPG)

Happy First Anniversary to Ember and Fran!
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: Fran on January 21, 2011, 02:54:02 pm
(http://www.frankiebaby.co.uk/images/uploads/stripydog.JPG)

Happy First Anniversary to Ember and Fran!

Thanks, Sandy.  The funny thing is, I did attempt to buy that card online -- figuring I could easily duplicate them and send them to my fellow whippet lovers -- but there was trouble with the order and I never pursued it.  :(  I do believe I'm going to go back to that website....


Awww! What a cute picture!!! :-*

Congratulations on your special day, Fran and Ember!!! 8)

Thank you, David.  I think you and del are tied at being Ember's greatest fans.   ;)
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: delalluvia on January 21, 2011, 08:14:52 pm

Thank you, David.  I think you and del are tied at being Ember's greatest fans.   ;)

I am.  ;D

She has that long dog nose that needs to be constantly kissed and those long supermodel dog legs and paws, she's just begging to be cuddled every hour.
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: Aloysius J. Gleek on February 01, 2011, 07:38:48 pm



[youtube=425,350]http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=X3iFhLdWjqc[/youtube]

 ;D
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: delalluvia on February 01, 2011, 08:06:45 pm
 :laugh: :laugh: :laugh:


That's great!

The timing of the narration was perfection!
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: Fran on February 01, 2011, 08:32:16 pm


[youtube=425,350]http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=X3iFhLdWjqc[/youtube]

 ;D

Some people are so creative cats are so talented!

Thanks for posting that, John.   :)
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: Fran on February 02, 2011, 03:16:45 pm
There's been plenty of snow in Ember's neck of the woods:

(http://i198.photobucket.com/albums/aa188/ffrraann/Ember/photo-2-1.jpg)

(http://i198.photobucket.com/albums/aa188/ffrraann/Ember/photo-1-2.jpg)

Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: southendmd on February 02, 2011, 06:37:19 pm
Great coat, Fran.  I wondered if Ember had little snow booties;  I saw them on a little doggy this morning. 
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: Fran on February 02, 2011, 07:27:32 pm
Great coat, Fran.  I wondered if Ember had little snow booties;  I saw them on a little doggy this morning. 

No snow boots for Ember.  I did try putting Madison's old boots on her, but my silly girl doesn't realize she they're made for walking, not chewing.  Plus, when Ember has to go, she really has to go, and there's no time to put boots on a dog, especially one who's not cooperating.  So, we got some Musher's Secret instead.  I think that's the same stuff your mom uses on her greyhound's feet. 

Which reminds me, how is Tara doing?  I've been meaning to ask.
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: southendmd on February 02, 2011, 07:35:43 pm
No snow boots for Ember.  I did try putting Madison's old boots on her, but my silly girl doesn't realize she they're made for walking, not chewing.  Plus, when Ember has to go, she really has to go, and there's no time to put boots on a dog, especially one who's not cooperating.  So, we got some Musher's Secret instead.  I think that's the same stuff your mom uses on her greyhound's feet. 

Which reminds me, how is Tara doing?  I've been meaning to ask.

Yes, Musher's Secret is good stuff. 

Sadly, Tara is on her last legs, literally.  She's become very weak in her hind legs, and is showing her age.  This very snowy winter has been pretty hard on her too.  The vet isn't too hopeful, either.

Well, my mom knows that adopting the elderly greyhounds means they won't be around that long.  I still think it's great that she has given two sweet old ladies a nice life.
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: Fran on February 02, 2011, 11:46:01 pm
Sadly, Tara is on her last legs, literally.  She's become very weak in her hind legs, and is showing her age.  This very snowy winter has been pretty hard on her too.  The vet isn't too hopeful, either.

Well, my mom knows that adopting the elderly greyhounds means they won't be around that long.  I still think it's great that she has given two sweet old ladies a nice life.

Oh, no.  I'm sorry to hear this.

Yes, your mom is a very special lady indeed to adopt the seniors.
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: Fran on February 07, 2011, 03:05:05 pm
Just what we needed (not), even more snow yesterday!!!

(http://i198.photobucket.com/albums/aa188/ffrraann/Ember/photo-2-2.jpg)
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: Penthesilea on February 09, 2011, 03:06:32 am
Peaceful coexistence.

(http://i575.photobucket.com/albums/ss192/Penthesilea09/Familie/64a11178.jpg)
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: David In Indy on February 09, 2011, 03:14:11 am
Peaceful coexistence.

(http://i575.photobucket.com/albums/ss192/Penthesilea09/Familie/64a11178.jpg)

Awww! Is that Maxi, Chrissi? 8) 8)

I haven't seen a picture of him in a long time! What is your kitteh's name? He's a real cutie too!

:-* :-*

Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: David In Indy on February 09, 2011, 03:19:28 am
Just what we needed (not), even more snow yesterday!!!

(http://i198.photobucket.com/albums/aa188/ffrraann/Ember/photo-2-2.jpg)

Ember be stylin'!! 8)

Does Ember tolerate the clothes? I bought a sweater and some booties for Cody several years ago but he didn't like it. He tried and tried to flick the boots off and shake the sweater off, so I gave up. He looked cute in his outfit, but apparently HE didn't think so! :laugh:

Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: Penthesilea on February 09, 2011, 03:41:29 am

Awww! Is that Maxi, Chrissi? 8) 8)

I haven't seen a picture of him in a long time! What is your kitteh's name? He's a real cutie too!

:-* :-*


Yes, that's my Mäxi. The cat's name is Cäsar.
Max has become an old fella, he was ten years last fall. So far he's fit as a fiiddle, thank god. He has developped a cyst on his neck, which the vet deemed as harmless, as long as it doesn't get infected. Knock on wood, I hope he'll stay healthy for many years to come.
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: David In Indy on February 09, 2011, 04:12:45 am

Yes, that's my Mäxi. The cat's name is Cäsar.
Max has become an old fella, he was ten years last fall. So far he's fit as a fiiddle, thank god. He has developped a cyst on his neck, which the vet deemed as harmless, as long as it doesn't get infected. Knock on wood, I hope he'll stay healthy for many years to come.

Oh I hope so too, Chrissi! He's a total cutie! He looks like such a sweet dog. :-*

He has lots of love at your house, I'm certain. I think he'll stick around for a long time to come. :) Please give him a hug for me. And Casar too!
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: Fran on February 09, 2011, 12:33:17 pm
Peaceful coexistence.

(http://i575.photobucket.com/albums/ss192/Penthesilea09/Familie/64a11178.jpg)
So cute! 

And I'm glad that Cäsar is sticking close to home.  Maybe he got all his wanderlust out of his system.   ;)
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: Fran on February 09, 2011, 12:45:18 pm
Does Ember tolerate the clothes?

Coats, yes.  Boots, no.  Silly hats, kinda -- only long enough to take a quick photo. or two.   :)
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: Penthesilea on February 14, 2011, 03:11:11 am
R I P
(http://i575.photobucket.com/albums/ss192/Penthesilea09/Familie/096aaddc.jpg)

Max
2000 - 2011







Last Friday, I had to put my Mäxi down. In the early morning, the world was still intact. He was happy to go for a walk and gobbled down his food with enthusiasm. He was his usual, happy self. In the course of the morning, he deteriorated quickly though and by noon I called my husband to come home. We went to the vet immediately but by the time we arrived, Max was already a dying dog. He had hypothermia and was extremely anemic. I decided to let the vet do all emergency measures and then exams to see what's up. The ultrasound showed he had a huge tumor in his spleen and liver, which probably had broken open in the morning.
It came so quickly, we had no idea. The vet said he can see the dog was well until recently, he wasn't emaciated or anything. The kids didn't even have a chance to say good-bye, when they left for school in the morning, Mäxi was still all right. We all miss him so badly. :'( :'( :'(

Rest in peace, my friend.
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: Berit on February 14, 2011, 04:52:58 am
R I P
(http://i575.photobucket.com/albums/ss192/Penthesilea09/Familie/096aaddc.jpg)

Max
2001 - 2011

I'm so sad for your loss. In the pic he looks like a wize guy, lovely fur. I'm not a dog person, more a cat lover but I know how much animals mean to us. They makes us happy and laughing, makes us relaxed and comforts us when we are sad.







Last Friday, I had to put my Mäxi down. In the early morning, the world was still intact. He was happy to go for a walk and gobbled down his food with enthusiasm. He was his usual, happy self. In the course of the morning, he deteriorated quickly though and by noon I called my husband to come home. We went to the vet immediately but by the time we arrived, Max was already a dying dog. He had hypothermia and was extremely anemic. I decided to let the vet do all emergency measures and then exams to see what's up. The ultrasound showed he had a huge tumor in his spleen and liver, which probably had broken open in the morning.
It came so quickly, we had no idea. The vet said he can see the dog was well until recently, he wasn't emaciated or anything. The kids didn't even have a chance to say good-bye, when they left for school in the morning, Mäxi was still all right. We all miss him so badly. :'( :'( :'(

Rest in peace, my friend.

Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: David In Indy on February 14, 2011, 04:58:29 am
OMG Chrissi, I am so sorry! I am literally crying right now! I'm just SICK over it and here just the other day I told you I was certain Max would be around for years to come. :'( :'(

{{{{CHRISSI}}}}

I can't even imagine putting my Cody down, but the time will come I suppose. Anyway, my heart is breaking for you and your family right now.

Rest In Peace Sweet Max!! :-* :'(

Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: Kelda on February 14, 2011, 05:05:13 am
So sorry to hear that Chrissi?
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: southendmd on February 14, 2011, 09:39:08 am
Chrissi, I'm just heartbroken for you and your family. 
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: Fran on February 14, 2011, 11:23:34 am
Chrissi,

My deepest condolences to you and your family on the loss of your precious Max. Never enough time, never enough.
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: CellarDweller on February 14, 2011, 12:47:39 pm
(http://www.primeeuroboxers.com/files/rainbow_bridge_2.jpg)



Just this side of heaven is a place called Rainbow Bridge.

When an animal dies that has been especially close to someone here, that pet goes to Rainbow Bridge.
There are meadows and hills for all of our special friends so they can run and play together.
There is plenty of food, water and sunshine, and our friends are warm and comfortable.

All the animals who had been ill and old are restored to health and vigor; those who were hurt or maimed are made whole and strong again, just as we remember them in our dreams of days and times gone by.
The animals are happy and content, except for one small thing; they each miss someone very special to them, who had to be left behind.

They all run and play together, but the day comes when one suddenly stops and looks into the distance. His bright eyes are intent; His eager body quivers. Suddenly he begins to run from the group, flying over the green grass, his legs carrying him faster and faster.

You have been spotted, and when you and your special friend finally meet, you cling together in joyous reunion, never to be parted again. The happy kisses rain upon your face; your hands again caress the beloved head, and you look once more into the trusting eyes of your pet, so long gone from your life but never absent from your heart.

Then you cross Rainbow Bridge together....

Author unknown...
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: Front-Ranger on February 14, 2011, 12:58:40 pm
What a wonderful dog! It's like losing a member of the family and especially since dogs are so trusting and loyal in spite of all our failings. I'm sorry for you and your family, but happy that you had a great life together while it lasted. I like to think of him romping and playing with my Kapu now.  :-*
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: Jeff Wrangler on February 14, 2011, 04:37:22 pm
I'm so sorry to hear about Max.  :'(
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: Shakesthecoffecan on February 14, 2011, 05:38:32 pm
I am so sorry to learn of his sudden death. That is really hard. My deepest sympathy to you and your family.
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: delalluvia on February 14, 2011, 07:41:46 pm
 :'( :'( :'(
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: Shasta542 on February 14, 2011, 08:54:38 pm
Sad to hear that you lost Max, Chrissi. He looks like such a sweet and lovable guy. I'm thinking of you and your family during this hard time.  
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: Penthesilea on February 15, 2011, 01:59:24 am
Thank you all.
I miss the clack, clack of his claws on the floor, I miss his content sigh and deep grunt when the day is officially over and we settle in bed at night, he slept on a rag in front of the bed. I miss him sneaking into the kitchen while we eat and of course I miss his greeting whenever I come home. I still have dog hair in my laundry pile though and it makes me miss him yet again.

An odd thought keeps coming to me: the last evening, I gave him half of a wrap which was left over from dinner. Normally he and the cat each gets a tiny piece of leftovers, when we clear the table. On Thursday evening I gave him a real big chunk though, and I'm ridicously glad about this now.
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: David In Indy on February 15, 2011, 04:29:23 am
Chrissi, you did the right thing. I hope you realize it. He would have suffered terribly. It's just a terrible thing though isn't it? They are a part of our family. People who have never had a pet find it difficult to understand, but it's true. Your descriptions of Max only prove my point.

I don't think I ever told you this - maybe I did - but when I lived in Evansville, I, along with a friend of mine - my lover at the time - took in the cutest dog. A stray. He just wandered up to our door one day. It was obvious he didn't have a home and we were scared the dog catcher would get him so it didn't take long for us to take him in. He was at least half bull mastiff (the vet said so) and something else. I'm not sure. Anyway, he reminded us a bit of the dog from the movie "Beethoven" so wouldn't you know it? We named him Beethoven! lol  We called him "Bay" for short. Corny name, I know. ::) He had the softest fur and the cutest face. We loved him and he loved us. To make a long story short, Bay passed away about 4 years after we adopted him. Your Max reminded me quite a bit of Bay.

I'll never forget the time I was feeling down and you posted a picture of Max "waving" at me. He had his paw up in the air and it was the CUTEST picture! That picture instanty cheered me up. So your Max somehow managed to have a positive effect on at least one person all the way across the Atlantic ocean, thousands of miles away from him. Quite a testiment to Max, huh?  And to you. 8)

What a cute and sweet dog he was, Chrissi! :-*
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: Sason on February 15, 2011, 04:22:20 pm
Chrissi, what a terrible way for you to lose your beloved dog.

I'm so sorry for you and your family.

When you get over the shock of the sudden loss, I hope the happy memories will prevail.

(((( Chrissi and family ))))
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: Meryl on February 15, 2011, 11:19:05 pm
Chrissi, I'm awfully sad to hear about your loss of Maxi.  It's so hard on the family to lose him so suddenly.  I'm glad, though, that he was feeling well up to the last and didn't have to suffer through a long illness.  He was a lucky dog, really, beloved by his family and happy in life.  That's what we wish for all those we love, isn't it?  Big hugs to you.  ((((Chrissi and family))))
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: David In Indy on February 24, 2011, 05:59:48 pm
Not exactly "breaking news" but I thought it was kind of sweet!



Stranded Dolphin Finds Home At Indy Zoo

Calf Found Alone Off Florida Coast


INDIANAPOLIS -- A dolphin calf found stranded along the coast of Florida will soon call the Indianapolis Zoo home.

Taz, a male Atlantic bottlenose calf believed to be about 6 months old, was found alone on a sandbar in the J.N. Ding Darling National Wildlife Refuge on Sanibel Island in January.



(http://www.theindychannel.com/2011/0224/26982020_400X300.jpg)



"The exact reason he became stranded is not known, but without a parent to guide him, the federal authorities who oversee the protection of wild marine determined that, without the social skills necessary, Taz would not survive on his own, and should not be returned to the wild," read a statement from the zoo.

Zoo officials said Indianapolis was selected because it presented the possibility for socialization with adult females almost immediately.

"The social dynamics of our dolphin group will provide the opportunity for Taz to become a member of a real dolphin family. We anticipate that more than one of our adult dolphins will help with his adjustment to the group," said Rob Shumaker, zoo vice president of life sciences.

While Taz adjusts to his new surroundings, he will be housed in the back pools in the zoo's Dolphin Adventure Pavilion. He may be available for public viewing later depending on his adjustment and health status, zoo officials said.


http://www.theindychannel.com/news/26982003/detail.html (http://www.theindychannel.com/news/26982003/detail.html)


Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: Front-Ranger on February 24, 2011, 06:27:53 pm
Please send pics when it gets to your neighborhood!!

They should rename it Ding Darling!
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: Kelda on February 24, 2011, 06:40:41 pm
awww...
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: Fran on February 24, 2011, 11:27:10 pm
Not exactly "breaking news" but I thought it was kind of sweet!

Sweet indeed!  Thanks for posting this, David.
Title: 8 Sure Fire Ways To Piss Off Your Cat
Post by: David In Indy on March 09, 2011, 02:56:44 am
8 Things You Do To Annoy Your Cat (or Worse!)




(http://www.blogcdn.com/www.pawnation.com/media/2011/03/woman-cat-345ss3711.jpg)




We love our cats but still complain about their annoying behavior problems. Why do they scratch furniture and caterwaul all night when we are perfect parents?

The problem is that while we are worrying about their behavior issues, we might be better off focusing on our behavior instead. Here are eight common things owners do to "hiss off" the cat.

1. Underappreciating the Need to Claw: Cats claw to mark territory, to exercise and relieve stress. Owners annoy cats by not providing the right claw object in the right location or by replacing a favorite scratching post. A nasty-clawed-ugly-old-post with scratch graffiti is like a child's favorite binky and can't be easily replaced with a spanking-new post.

2. Surprising Him With the Cat Carrier and a Trip to the Vet: Being stuffed into an unfamiliar cat carrier and then grabbed, poked and probed by scary-smelling strangers (vet alert!) makes cats hit the panic button. Savvy kitties teach owners a lesson by disappearing each time we reach for the carrier. Acclimate your cat to its bag by first making the cat carrier part of the furniture in the room. Then add catnip toys or fuzzy bedding to make it more soothing and appealing.

3. Buying the Wrong Litter Box or Litter: Hit-or-miss potty behavior is the top complaint of cat owners but we often bring it on ourselves without realizing it.

- Changing cat litter. Do you have a favorite TP? Cats get attached to favorite litter, and switching prompts some cats to take their business elsewhere.

- Getting a too-small box. If you have a jumbo-size cat, most standard litter boxes will be too small and he will have to hang over the edge or look elsewhere.

- Choosing a covered box. Though this might appeal to you, it doesn't work for all cats. A covered box condenses smells, which can make the box a place the cat wants to avoid. These kinds of boxes also often block the view, so cats can't see if someone is sneaking up on them.

- Having too few boxes. Your cats might be acting up because they don't like sharing a littler box. Extra boxes will reduce the hiss quotient.

4. Leaving Him Behind: Your cats get used to being fed, petted, played with and snuggled at certain times, and your absence during a business trip or vacation throws a wrench in kitty expectations. It can take him a week to get accustomed to a change in schedule, so not only is his schedule upset when you leave, it is also upset when you return.

5. Oversleeping: Why would an owner want to sleep late when a kitty bowl needs to be filled? Cats just don't understand it. Which is why they raise a ruckus to point out food bowl infractions or other owner irresponsibility. Even a small change can annoy your cat.

6. Forcing Indoor Incarceration: Cats that have experienced the great outdoors can become distraught when "jailed" exclusively indoors. Sure, they're safer indoors away from dangers, but cats find closed doors and barred windows crazy-making. Keep the annoyance level down by recreating the outdoors inside with challenges like cat towers and puzzle toys.

7. Cheating With a New Pet: Bringing a new pet (especially another cat) into the house turns up the hiss-teria. How would you feel if asked to share your potty, dinner plate, toys, bed and love-of-your-life human with a stranger off the street? To the cat, the interloper looks funny, smells scary and disrupts the all-important routine. It can take weeks or months for cats to accept newcomers as family members.

8. Declawing: This doesn't just annoy your cat, surgical claw removal offends many cats on an emotional and physical level. It strips away normal kitty defenses and changes kitty stride/balance. Yes, some cats manage to suck it up and soldier on, but others demonstrate hissed-off status by avoiding the litter box (it hurts to dig with sore toes!) or biting more often in defense.

Of course, every cat is unique and your cat might have an entirely different list that causes hissy fits. Understanding what annoys our cats helps us be better owners and enhances the love we share.


--------------------------------------------------------------------------------



http://www.pawnation.com/2011/03/08/8-things-you-do-to-annoy-your-cat-or-worse/?icid=main%7Chtmlws-main-n%7Cdl8%7Csec1_lnk3%7C205282 (http://www.pawnation.com/2011/03/08/8-things-you-do-to-annoy-your-cat-or-worse/?icid=main%7Chtmlws-main-n%7Cdl8%7Csec1_lnk3%7C205282)
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: Lynne on March 09, 2011, 03:31:22 am
R I P
(http://i575.photobucket.com/albums/ss192/Penthesilea09/Familie/096aaddc.jpg)

Max
2000 - 2011

Last Friday, I had to put my Mäxi down. In the early morning, the world was still intact. He was happy to go for a walk and gobbled down his food with enthusiasm. He was his usual, happy self. In the course of the morning, he deteriorated quickly though and by noon I called my husband to come home. We went to the vet immediately but by the time we arrived, Max was already a dying dog. He had hypothermia and was extremely anemic. I decided to let the vet do all emergency measures and then exams to see what's up. The ultrasound showed he had a huge tumor in his spleen and liver, which probably had broken open in the morning.
It came so quickly, we had no idea. The vet said he can see the dog was well until recently, he wasn't emaciated or anything. The kids didn't even have a chance to say good-bye, when they left for school in the morning, Mäxi was still all right. We all miss him so badly. :'( :'( :'(

Rest in peace, my friend.


Oh, Chrissi, shit.  And I do mean that in the BBM sense.  Max looks like a wonderful dog - such an expressive and beautiful face.  I am so sorry for you and your family.  

 :'( :'( :'(

((((Chrissi))))

This is one of those threads I never get to, wish I'd known sooner.  I'm sorry about that too.

 :-\
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: Penthesilea on March 09, 2011, 05:52:55 am

Oh, Chrissi, shit.  And I do mean that in the BBM sense.  Max looks like a wonderful dog - such an expressive and beautiful face.  I am so sorry for you and your family.  

 :'( :'( :'(

((((Chrissi))))

This is one of those threads I never get to, wish I'd known sooner.  I'm sorry about that too.

 :-\


Thank you Lynne.
It's 3 and a half weeks now, and it still hurts and I miss him.
Friends and relatives are asking if we'll be getting another dog. I really don't know. I want my Mäxi back, I don't want some "other" dog. So no new dog for us for a while, maybe in a few months, after all summer holidays.
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: Lynne on March 09, 2011, 06:04:39 am

Thank you Lynne.
It's 3 and a half weeks now, and it still hurts and I miss him.
Friends and relatives are asking if we'll be getting another dog. I really don't know. I want my Mäxi back, I don't want some "other" dog. So no new dog for us for a while, maybe in a few months, after all summer holidays.

I'm sure you do...they are tricky how they insinuate themselves and are family before you even know it.  And the next thing you know, you've spent $2K in the past year at, say, the South End Veterinary Clinic and your budget for pet food has increased by factor of 10.  And you'd gladly spend 200 times that if you could just fix them.

 ::)

Don't be pressured by the questions.  There's no time limit on mourning.  You'll all know when you're ready.  And I imagine your kids must be crushed too, for it to happen so suddenly while they were gone.  How horrible for them.

 :'(

A friend lost her elderly cat lately - more family of a friend, really - and it was interesting how she was so very philosophical and accepting about it.  She definitely has an emotional maturity (?) perhaps that I do not possess.  She's a widow, though, and is familiar with loss; maybe that makes a difference.

I cannot remember her exact words - but it was something along the lines of understanding the life span of a pet being different than that of people when you enter into it.  And of course being grateful that you're allowed to be there for them and share in their life and love for what time they have here.

 :'( :'( :'(
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: CellarDweller on March 21, 2011, 11:36:32 am

(http://i54.photobucket.com/albums/g116/CellarDweller115/Photography/wyoming2008people364.jpg)

Blaze in June of 2008.



Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: CellarDweller on March 21, 2011, 11:39:08 am

Blaze in March of 2011.


:D :D :D




(http://i327.photobucket.com/albums/k463/dcfmod/family%20pics/blaze1.jpg)
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: CellarDweller on March 21, 2011, 11:40:49 am

Every inch, a gentleman.

::)


(http://i327.photobucket.com/albums/k463/dcfmod/family%20pics/blaze2.jpg)
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: CellarDweller on March 21, 2011, 11:43:27 am

(http://i327.photobucket.com/albums/k463/dcfmod/family%20pics/blaze3.jpg)
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: Kelda on March 21, 2011, 05:21:39 pm
He's saying RUB MY TUMMY!!!!
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: delalluvia on April 02, 2011, 02:16:21 pm
We are putting up a fence at my mom's house.  For the last few years, there has been a big fat black cat that's lived in and among my mom's yard.  It sleep in the sun in the back patio during the winter, hide among the tall grass and watch the birds as they fed, drink water out of the birdbath, eat their bread that I threw out for the birds.  Not our cat but kind of a wild spirit of the place that came and went.  

I was wondering how it was going to adapt to 8 foot high fences we were about to install.

I don't have to wonder anymore.

The first anniversary of my mother's death was yesterday.  I walked out this morning to run an errand and that big black cat had gotten run over last night in the street just outside our driveway.

 :'( :'( :'(

It's bloody and flies are buzzing it and I can't pull in my driveway.  I don't know what do with it.  It's just going to get run over again and again where it's at, and guts and maggots are going to be everywhere and I don't know what to do and I just want to scream and cry.
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: Shasta542 on April 02, 2011, 03:03:51 pm
:( Sorry about the cat. Poor kitty. Usually when they live a certain length of time, they have figured out how to dodge traffic.

Around here, we can call town hall and there is a street crew...probably from the dogcatcher's---and they will come out and take care of things like that. Maybe you have those services?
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: delalluvia on April 02, 2011, 03:12:09 pm
:( Sorry about the cat. Poor kitty. Usually when they live a certain length of time, they have figured out how to dodge traffic.

Around here, we can call town hall and there is a street crew...probably from the dogcatcher's---and they will come out and take care of things like that. Maybe you have those services?


Thank you.  I went and looked and yes they do.  They should be here tomorrow.

 :(

Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: Penthesilea on April 02, 2011, 03:15:43 pm
Sorry about the cat. And about the date she got run over. Guess it didn't matter to the cat, but you probably had a bad day anyway. :-\
(((Della)))
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: Kelda on April 07, 2011, 04:56:08 pm
(((Del)))
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: Penthesilea on April 12, 2011, 01:46:06 am
I met the cutest little doggie this weekend. :)

This is my aunt's new dog, Mellie:

(http://i575.photobucket.com/albums/ss192/Penthesilea09/Familie/fc92fa92.jpg)



(http://i575.photobucket.com/albums/ss192/Penthesilea09/Familie/a64ceb0e.jpg)


She's so teeny-tiny, you wouldn't belive it. She's a mix between a Yorkshire-Terrier and a Pug and 5 months old. Mellie is even smaller than my cat (!) and I guess she won't grow that much anymore. So small, but such charm!
I fell completely for this lil fella. :)

So, two new things happend to me within five minutes of meeting Mellie: first, I never could have imagined to have a small dog. I like small dogs just fine, but always wanted to have big ones. Second: until this weekend I felt I wasn't yet in a position to even think about another dog.

But within a few minutes, she had me. I really would have loved to keep her. If for some reason my aunt would have said she can't keep her I would have put Mellie into my bag (fits easily) and wouldn't have thought about it twice. ♥♥♥
But of course my aunt is totally into her little sweetie. The two are a wonderful team.


I'm freshly in love, kind of! :laugh:

Small dogs do have plenty advantages: the girls could help with walking the dog; it's much easier to find a dog-sitter for a small dog when you're on vacation; the kids always wanted to have a small dog (additionally to Max of course, they loved him dearly); small dogs don't need that much excercise; it's easier to take them with you for vacations; people are not afraid of them; and so on.


Now I'm thinking seriously about having a dog again, and about possibly looking for a small dog, or at least being open to any size of dog. But I will be on vacation all of July, so nothing will happen until August an least. I won't start looking at those online pages for poor homeless dogs because when I do, I know it wouldn't take long and some creature would melt my heart.
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: David In Indy on April 12, 2011, 02:12:10 am
{{{{{CHRISSI}}}}}

Life goes on, doesn't it? :-* :-*

VERY cute dog, btw... 8) 8)
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: Kelda on April 12, 2011, 04:14:11 am
Awww... but as David says life goes on and I'm sure the kids would love a little furry friend!
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: Fran on April 12, 2011, 02:11:56 pm
Yes, little Mellie is definitely a keeper.  What a little cutie!!!  Congratulations to your aunt.

As for other advantages to having a smaller dog as a pet:  
I'm sure you'll know when the time is right to add a new dog to your family and you'll choose the perfect one (whatever the size).  :)
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: Shasta542 on April 12, 2011, 09:22:04 pm
My dogs range in size from 100 pounds to 5 pounds. I love them all. I'd say the biggest differences to me are...the big ones have been much easier to train to go outside for the bathroom, but when I want to run errands around town and take one with me...the little ones are easier to load up.   8)

Mellie is a yorkie/pug? Very cute! My cousin has a yorkie/chihuahua that looks similar.
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: Front-Ranger on April 13, 2011, 09:11:33 am
It looks like Melli has a thing for pine cones!! Another good point!
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: Fran on April 13, 2011, 12:53:36 pm
My dogs range in size from 100 pounds to 5 pounds. I love them all. I'd say the biggest differences to me are...the big ones have been much easier to train to go outside for the bathroom, but when I want to run errands around town and take one with me...the little ones are easier to load up.   8)

Shasta, I think we need to see some recent photos of your crew.

Here's my couch potato:

(http://i198.photobucket.com/albums/aa188/ffrraann/Ember/IMG_0343.jpg)
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: Front-Ranger on April 13, 2011, 04:00:31 pm
She looks like the perfect accessory for your couch!
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: delalluvia on April 13, 2011, 06:57:21 pm
Shasta, I think we need to see some recent photos of your crew.

Here's my couch potato:

(http://i198.photobucket.com/albums/aa188/ffrraann/Ember/IMG_0343.jpg)

Thanks!  I was just looking at your icon yesterday and thinking, "I need to see some Ember pictures."

 ;D ;D ;D
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: Shasta542 on April 13, 2011, 09:38:24 pm
Ember is so pretty. Yep..I need to post some of my critters, but right now my camera is on the blink. Actually the front cover of it has separated from the back and the flash won't work. I think it's time for a new one. :P  But I just had to buy 4 new performance tires for my car and that set me back....way back!!  :-\  On a good note...the car is riding way better!  ;D
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: David In Indy on April 14, 2011, 02:17:23 am
Shasta, I think we need to see some recent photos of your crew.

Here's my couch potato:

(http://i198.photobucket.com/albums/aa188/ffrraann/Ember/IMG_0343.jpg)


THERE'S EMBER!!!!! :-* :-*


Awwww, she's so cute and pretty! 8)

How did you get her to look off to the side like that Fran? Did you set the timer on your camera and then move to her left in order to get her attention? It's a wonderful picture of her! Just look at that cute face and those sparkling eyes!
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: Fran on April 14, 2011, 10:38:49 am
How did you get her to look off to the side like that Fran? Did you set the timer on your camera and then move to her left in order to get her attention? It's a wonderful picture of her! Just look at that cute face and those sparkling eyes!

David, you're giving me way too much credit here.

I just take a lot of photos and hope for the best.  If I'm lucky, I get one or two halfway decent ones, which I edit at Photobucket or at iPhoto.  (Love the cropping feature at both.  At iPhoto, you can even straighten a photo by tilting it a couple of degrees to the left or to the right.)  In way too many photos, Ember ends up looking emaciated or, believe it or not, fat and very un-whippet-like (in close-ups), or else I end up with part of her tail, or even worse, just a blur because she moved.  

Thank God for digital cameras.  At least I'm not paying for crappy photos.   :)

Here's "Cartoon" Ember:

(http://i198.photobucket.com/albums/aa188/ffrraann/Ember/photo-2-3-1-1-2-1.jpg)

LOL
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: David In Indy on April 15, 2011, 12:32:30 am
Awwww! I LOVE Cartoon Ember!!! 8) 8)

Regardless of how you do it, you do a very good job with those pictures Fran! Don't sell yourself short. It doesn't matter HOW you do it, it's the END RESULT that matters!

Although I think she's a very photogenic dog. And those dark sparkly eyes and sweet face would be very hard to resist. :-* :-*
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: Penthesilea on April 15, 2011, 03:23:09 am
David, you're giving me way too much credit here.

I just take a lot of photos and hope for the best.  If I'm lucky, I get one or two halfway decent ones, which I edit at Photobucket or at iPhoto.  (Love the cropping feature at both.  At iPhoto, you can even straighten a photo by tilting it a couple of degrees to the left or to the right.)  In way too many photos, Ember ends up looking emaciated or, believe it or not, fat and very un-whippet-like (in close-ups), or else I end up with part of her tail, or even worse, just a blur because she moved.  

Thank God for digital cameras.  At least I'm not paying for crappy photos.   :)

Here's "Cartoon" Ember:

(http://i198.photobucket.com/albums/aa188/ffrraann/Ember/photo-2-3-1-1-2-1.jpg)

LOL




I know what you mean. I have about thirty photos of Mellie, and maybe five or six that aren't totally for the recycle bin. ::)
Had to scoop her up in my arms to keep the doggie still for a few seconds. She's a young terrier, what do you you expect? :laugh:


That cartoon picture of Ember is really wonderful. Something to print and put on the wall. :)


Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: delalluvia on April 16, 2011, 01:36:14 pm
David, you're giving me way too much credit here.

I just take a lot of photos and hope for the best.  If I'm lucky, I get one or two halfway decent ones, which I edit at Photobucket or at iPhoto.  (Love the cropping feature at both.  At iPhoto, you can even straighten a photo by tilting it a couple of degrees to the left or to the right.)  In way too many photos, Ember ends up looking emaciated or, believe it or not, fat and very un-whippet-like (in close-ups), or else I end up with part of her tail, or even worse, just a blur because she moved.  

 :laugh:

Exactly.  I think I posted the picture here, somewhere, but it's of my Asian breed cats, sitting in the window sill, posed between a statue of Buddha and a bonsai tree.  One sitting, one lying down and they're both looking up at me, perfectly posed.  People look at that and assumed somehow I made the cats do that.  I have to explain that I don't make them do anything.  They did that on their own and I was just lucky enough to catch it on film. 
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: southendmd on April 29, 2011, 12:24:58 pm
I'm sorry to say that my mother's sweet, elderly greyhound Tara died yesterday.  My mother adopted her when she was already 10 years old, and gave her a very good life. 

I was glad that I got to see her Wednesday night, and take her for a little walk to her favorite spot, to visit the smells of all her friends.  Poor thing, she could hardly walk and I had to carry her into the house. 

Because she was very camera-shy, I don't have a great photo of her, except on my phone.  I'll try to extract that one.  She was very handsome, fawn-colored, and very large for a female.  When she was young, like 10-12, she liked to sprint home after our walks!

She'll be greatly missed. 
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: Penthesilea on April 29, 2011, 12:49:16 pm
I'm sorry to hear ((Paul and your mom)).
I'm glad that you did get to take her for a little walk one last time.

You mother did a very good deed, taking in an elderly dog. Chapeau to her.
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: Fran on April 29, 2011, 01:04:12 pm
Paul, I am so sorry to hear this news.  God bless your mom for opening her heart to a older greyhound like Tara and helping her live out her golden years in a home where she was obviously loved to pieces.  My heart aches for your mom.  This can't be easy for her...or for Tara's "uncle" Paul, for that matter.

Paraphrasing what someone told me after I lost my Madison, if there's a heaven for dogs -- and I'm sure there is -- then sweet Tara is running herself silly right now.

Please extend my deepest sympathy to your mom.
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: Sason on April 29, 2011, 01:26:38 pm
I'm so sorry to hear this, Paul!

It must be especially hard for your mum. She did a very good thing when she adopted Tara,
and made the second part of her life a good one!

Glad you were able to take her for one last walk.
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: CellarDweller on April 29, 2011, 06:07:27 pm
wow....Paul, I'm so sorry to hear about Tara.
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: southendmd on April 29, 2011, 06:46:34 pm
Chrissi, Fran, Sonja and Chuckie:  Thanks for all the kind words, friends.   :-*
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: memento on April 30, 2011, 11:51:54 am
Paul, so sorry to hear about Tara. I'm sure your mother gave her a very good life.
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: Kelda on April 30, 2011, 02:27:21 pm
Sorry to hear that Paul..  :(
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: Fran on May 01, 2011, 10:35:30 pm
My city dog got to spend some time out in the suburbs today.

(http://i198.photobucket.com/albums/aa188/ffrraann/Ember/IMG_0362_2.jpg)

(http://i198.photobucket.com/albums/aa188/ffrraann/Ember/IMG_0355_2.jpg)

...and the green grass grows all around, all around, and the green grass grows all around.
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: southendmd on May 01, 2011, 11:16:09 pm
Thanks, Sandy and Kelda.

Wow, Fran, Ember is over-the-top cute.
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: Fran on May 01, 2011, 11:21:59 pm
Thanks, Paul.

Did you ever find that photo of Tara?  I know you sent me one once, but that was on my old phone.  I'm trying to remember what she looked like.  I know I thought she was very pretty.
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: delalluvia on May 03, 2011, 07:26:04 pm
My city dog got to spend some time out in the suburbs today.

(http://i198.photobucket.com/albums/aa188/ffrraann/Ember/IMG_0362_2.jpg)

(http://i198.photobucket.com/albums/aa188/ffrraann/Ember/IMG_0355_2.jpg)

...and the green grass grows all around, all around, and the green grass grows all around.

Pre-tty pre-tty doggie spending Mayday out where there's lovely grass and trees.  :)
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: Jeff Wrangler on May 20, 2011, 04:07:40 pm
My dad has rabbits in his backyard!  :D

They're eating his snow pea vines.  :(
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: CellarDweller on May 20, 2011, 08:54:33 pm
bunny bunny bunny bunny bunny
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: Jeff Wrangler on May 20, 2011, 09:09:36 pm
bunny bunny bunny bunny bunny

And this means?  ???
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: CellarDweller on May 20, 2011, 10:54:37 pm
And this means?  ???

LOL

It's a thing my friends and I have said in the past.  A group of us were at a park, and a wild rabbit was eating the grass.  One of my friends' kids (I think she was 5 at the time) pointed and said "Oooh....bunny bunny bunny" really quickly.

after that, anytime the word "bunny" or "rabbit" was said, suddenly we'd all be going "bunny bunny bunny bunny bunny!"
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: Sason on May 21, 2011, 12:23:59 pm
bunny bunny bunny bunny bunny

Stay calm, Chuck.

Take a deap breath.

Let me put something cold on your forehead.

Have you had seizures like this before?

Maybe we should call an ambulance?

Let me wipe the froth around your mouth off.


Here, have some red velvet cake, I'm sure it helps.


 8) ;D
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: Katie77 on June 14, 2011, 11:40:15 pm
Animal lovers will love this......

[youtube=425,350]http://www.youtube.com/watch_popup?v=EVwlMVYqMu4&vq=medium#t=125
[/youtube]
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: Katie77 on June 15, 2011, 12:07:25 am
Heres a funny one.....enjoy

http://s220.photobucket.com/albums/dd7/suekat777/?action=view&current=ItsaDogsLife.mp4 (http://s220.photobucket.com/albums/dd7/suekat777/?action=view&current=ItsaDogsLife.mp4)
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: Kelda on June 18, 2011, 07:29:38 am
 :laugh:
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: CellarDweller on June 23, 2011, 09:16:37 am
Blaze had a visit with the vet yesterday, and he HATES the vet.

Mom said that when she got him there, he refused to come out of the carrier.  The vet tilted the carrier, and when Blaze came out, he hissed, growled, and proceeded to shit and piss all over the table top.

The vet (who is Muslim and has dreadlocks) replied with "Blaze, don't do that to me, we're brothers!  We're both black."

 :laugh: :laugh: :laugh:

Blaze is back home.  For a while, he was  wobbling around as the sedative werel wearing off.  He has to be sedated for the vet and his assistants to handle him.  LOL  Blaze is now up to date on his shots, had his fur cleaned and shaved in places, claws are clipped.
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: Fran on June 23, 2011, 10:50:51 am
Glad everyone survived Blaze's vet visit.  How often does he have to go in?  Annually?  If so, then you're set for a while.

How did your mom ever manage to get him in the carrier?
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: Kelda on June 23, 2011, 03:03:49 pm
Skimble just meow meow meow meows when he's in his carrier and he mieows louder when in the car!
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: delalluvia on June 23, 2011, 06:32:29 pm
Skimble just meow meow meow meows when he's in his carrier and he mieows louder when in the car!

Both my cats fight when being shoved in the carrier - all four legs out trying to be too big to fit in the opening (now before I even get them over to the cage, I pin their legs to their bodies) and refuse to come out or be tilted out at the vet's.  We end up now dismantling the carrier and the vet just picks them up out of it and then reassemble it when he's done.
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: CellarDweller on June 23, 2011, 07:58:43 pm
Glad everyone survived Blaze's vet visit.  How often does he have to go in?  Annually?  If so, then you're set for a while.

How did your mom ever manage to get him in the carrier?

The carrier is a larger one, so it was simple enough to get him in, I guess.  We tend to take Blaze every two years to the vet's office for updates on shots and nail clipping and such.


Here is a shot of the gentleman resting in the living room after his recent trip.

 :laugh:




(http://i54.photobucket.com/albums/g116/CellarDweller115/blaze002.jpg)
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: Kelda on June 24, 2011, 09:27:06 am
Both my cats fight when being shoved in the carrier - all four legs out trying to be too big to fit in the opening (now before I even get them over to the cage, I pin their legs to their bodies) and refuse to come out or be tilted out at the vet's.  We end up now dismantling the carrier and the vet just picks them up out of it and then reassemble it when he's done.

Ph its funny when they do that! yes,. he does a bit of the splayed leg thing going in to the carrier too.... but I never have trouble getting him out of it!!

Oh and this cartoon was in the paper today - thought you guys would enjoy it!
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: Fran on July 04, 2011, 11:19:36 pm
Happy 4th of July!

(http://i198.photobucket.com/albums/aa188/ffrraann/Ember/photo-2-4.jpg)
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: delalluvia on July 05, 2011, 01:00:11 am
 :-* :-*
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: CellarDweller on July 05, 2011, 05:25:37 am
awww cute pic!!!
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: Meryl on July 05, 2011, 01:42:53 pm
The world's most fervent cat lover?  ;D

[youtube=425,350]http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mTTwcCVajAc[/youtube]
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: Sason on July 05, 2011, 03:48:59 pm
 :laugh: :laugh: :laugh:



hm...maybe not the best of ads to post on a dating site...?  ::)


"I just love their little ears"   ;D
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: Kelda on July 05, 2011, 04:24:11 pm
The world's most fervent cat lover?  ;D

[youtube=425,350]http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mTTwcCVajAc[/youtube]

 :laugh: :laugh: Surely to godthat a joke!? Even I'm not that bad!!
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: Aloysius J. Gleek on July 17, 2011, 12:44:20 pm




Fetch, godammit!!
[youtube=425,350]http://www.youtube.com/watch?feature=player_embedded&v=q8DiOthAKek[/youtube]



Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: Sason on July 17, 2011, 01:04:58 pm



Fetch, godammit!!
[youtube=425,350]http://www.youtube.com/watch?feature=player_embedded&v=q8DiOthAKek[/youtube]





I'm a bit surprised at this. I would have thought a dog could easily know the difference between a statue and a real person, with the help of its nose.

But it doesn't seem so.
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: Meryl on July 17, 2011, 04:50:54 pm
Aw, that's so cute and funny.  Poor confused doggie!  :)

Somebody sent me this and it gave me a hearty laugh.  Recommended if you need one, too.  ;D

[youtube=425,350]http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hzaoNEG6P4U&feature=youtube_gdata_player[/youtube]

Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: Sason on July 17, 2011, 05:32:27 pm
^^^^^^^^^^

LOL! Talk about confused doggie!!  :laugh: :laugh: :laugh:
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: Penthesilea on July 18, 2011, 06:13:45 am
Aw, that's so cute and funny.  Poor confused doggie!  :)

Somebody sent me this and it gave me a hearty laugh.  Recommended if you need one, too.  ;D

[youtube=425,350]http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hzaoNEG6P4U&feature=youtube_gdata_player[/youtube]


I don't think the doggie was confused. No instruction manual needed. He flipped the woman as expertedly around as Ennis did with Jack. ;D :laugh:


Seriously: if it were my dog, he'd get a kick or something that makes it clear without a doubt that humping humans is absolutely out of question.
Sure was funny though ... :laugh:
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: Meryl on July 19, 2011, 12:22:17 am
I don't think the doggie was confused. No instruction manual needed. He flipped the woman as expertedly around as Ennis did with Jack. ;D :laugh

 :laugh:

So true.  ;D
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: delalluvia on July 20, 2011, 01:26:19 am
My poor Kabuki!

Silly cat likes to rub herself all over my shoes.   

Never thought much of it, except when she gets too excited and starts biting and clawing the leather.

Anyway, last night, she ran afoul of a sandal of mine that has a myriad of slender straps.  In rubbing her face against it, the straps snarled in her cat collar.  The more she struggled to get it off, the tighter it drew around her neck.  I have the most giving of collars on these cats - it's stretchy cord that people use to string beads on.  But it didn't give.  I was awoken in the wee hours by Kabuki stumbling to my bed and making several attempts to jump up on my mattress, falling down twice, with this sandal snarled around her neck.

She'd come to me for help in getting it off.

I rapidly realized what the matter was and grabbed her.  The straps twisted harder and she started to panic, but I grabbed her nape and she held still long enough for me to pull it off.

She is fine.

Whew!  Ladies and gents, moral of the story, I'm putting away any shoe with extra straps on it.
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: Penthesilea on July 20, 2011, 03:47:01 am
My poor Kabuki!

Silly cat likes to rub herself all over my shoes.   

Never thought much of it, except when she gets too excited and starts biting and clawing the leather.

Anyway, last night, she ran afoul of a sandal of mine that has a myriad of slender straps.  In rubbing her face against it, the straps snarled in her cat collar.  The more she struggled to get it off, the tighter it drew around her neck.  I have the most giving of collars on these cats - it's stretchy cord that people use to string beads on.  But it didn't give.  I was awoken in the wee hours by Kabuki stumbling to my bed and making several attempts to jump up on my mattress, falling down twice, with this sandal snarled around her neck.

She'd come to me for help in getting it off.

I rapidly realized what the matter was and grabbed her.  The straps twisted harder and she started to panic, but I grabbed her nape and she held still long enough for me to pull it off.

She is fine.

Whew!  Ladies and gents, moral of the story, I'm putting away any shoe with extra straps on it.



Poor kitty, she must have been horrified.
Good thing she came to you for help. :-*
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: Kelda on July 20, 2011, 04:50:05 am
Glad she is okay!

My cat likes to nap in my shoe cupboard.. I think he just likes any enclosed space.. Ive found him in the drawer under our bed before when its been left slightly ajar.
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: Jeff Wrangler on July 20, 2011, 08:42:56 am
She is fine.

I'm glad. What an awful thing to happen to her.  :(
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: Meryl on August 02, 2011, 11:15:33 am
This cracks me up!  (Very short)

[youtube=425,350]http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WxGS-2M6_5I&feature=player_embedded[/youtube]
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: Aloysius J. Gleek on August 30, 2011, 07:17:17 am



Get ready to cry.
[youtube=425,350]http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uEP3M9kOr9Q&feature[/youtube]
:) :) :)



Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: Aloysius J. Gleek on August 30, 2011, 07:38:40 am


http://www.animalsaustralia.org/media/in_the_news.php?article=482


Model hero stoked by gong
20 August 2009


(http://www.animalsaustralia.org/images/features/500-CSA-raden.jpg)

Herald-Sun


THE humble hero who saved Bibi the dog from drowning has received a gong from an animal welfare group.

Raden Soemawinata, 20, has been honoured after he dived off Brighton pier to rescue Bibi during gales on Sunday morning.

Mr Soemawinata's feat, which was captured by a Herald Sun photographer, sparked global interest and turned the young chef and part-time model into an instant celebrity.

Animals Australia, which represents more than 40 societies and thousands of individual members, yesterday gave him its Compassionate Citizen Award at a ceremony held at the rescue site.

The organisation's executive director Glenys Oogjes said yesterday that very few people would be willing to put their own life at risk to rescue an animal.

"Raden's action in jumping into the sea in such wild weather to rescue Bibi was truly courageous and most likely saved the life of this little dog," she said. Bibi's owner Sue Drummond said Mr Soemawinata was selfless and brave.

"Bibi would have succumbed if he hadn't jumped in", she said. "He's such a very nice young man".

Mrs Drummond said Bibi was doing well after his ordeal, but yesterday was the first time they had returned to the pier. "He seems very much back to normal, he's focused on food which is his normal thing", she said.

Mr Soemawinata, himself a dog owner, said he was stoked when told he was getting the award. "I was quite proud but at the same time I wondered whether I'd done enough to receive it", he said.

"I know the companionship dogs bring to people".

The Compassionate Citizen Award was recently created, with sporting legend Ron Clarke the first honoured for recent comments criticising rodeos.
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: Jeff Wrangler on August 30, 2011, 09:04:31 am
He's  a c-u-u-u-u-t-e puppy. ...

Oh, yeah, so's the dog. ...
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: Fran on August 30, 2011, 01:03:30 pm
I really like this one:

[youtube=425,350]http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dUwMhHZLzUE[/youtube]
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: Fran on September 01, 2011, 02:24:12 am
Look who's celebrating their birthday today.

(http://i198.photobucket.com/albums/aa188/ffrraann/Ember/IMG_0397.jpg)

Happy 2nd Birthday to Ember!

(http://i198.photobucket.com/albums/aa188/ffrraann/Ember/IMG_0392.jpg)

(http://i198.photobucket.com/albums/aa188/ffrraann/Ember/photo-2-5.jpg)

Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: Fran on September 01, 2011, 02:27:58 am
And because I've been having lots of fun with Photobucket, some Ember art:

(http://i198.photobucket.com/albums/aa188/ffrraann/Ember/photo-2-1-1-2.jpg)

(http://i198.photobucket.com/albums/aa188/ffrraann/Ember/IMG_0840-2.jpg)

Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: southendmd on September 01, 2011, 07:37:47 am
Who could resist that face?  Happy birthday to Ember!
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: Penthesilea on September 01, 2011, 07:46:18 am
Happy Birthday Ember!
So gentle.... Cute images, Fran. :)
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: Meryl on September 05, 2011, 09:26:30 pm
Belated Happy Birthday greetings to pretty Ember!  :-*
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: Front-Ranger on September 05, 2011, 09:47:23 pm
Happy birthday to the elegant Ember!!
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: delalluvia on September 10, 2011, 02:07:13 pm
Ack I'm late!

Many many birthday kisses to the Ember doggy nose!!

 :-* :-* :-* :-* :-*
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: Shakesthecoffecan on September 15, 2011, 05:17:59 pm
The other day my cat, Crybaby, was lounging on my desk and rolled over and right off of it, she looked me right in the eye as she tumbled of with this look of "I wasn't planning on this to happen."

Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: Sason on September 15, 2011, 05:27:36 pm
Aw.... poor Crybaby.

Is that why she didn't say meow to me on FB?   ;D
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: CellarDweller on September 15, 2011, 05:38:10 pm
Awww....sorry Crybaby!

Hey, Blaze is in the banner.  ;D
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: fritzkep on September 15, 2011, 06:07:59 pm
And so is Blazy our turtle! Thanks, y'all!

No real story to tell about him, just that a coworker back in the early 80's found him in the worker's canteloupe patch, brought him to me (since we had several other box turtles at the time), and we've had him ever since.

That picture is from a couple of years ago, when he finally started eating again after his winter fast, with fishsticks!

Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: Fran on September 15, 2011, 10:42:12 pm
Ember is thrilled to be in the banner!
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: Penthesilea on September 16, 2011, 12:30:44 am
Ember is thrilled to be in the banner!


And so is my tumbler - err, Cäsar. ;D
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: Jeff Wrangler on September 16, 2011, 09:03:10 am
There was a cute segment on the Today show this morning about a duck in England who thinks he's a person.  ;D

He was rejected by his mother and his fellow hatchlings, and he imprinted on his owner. Now he follows his owner everywhere--even drinks beer with him at the pub--and snuggles up with him to watch television.
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: Sason on September 16, 2011, 12:47:09 pm
There was a cute segment on the Today show this morning about a duck in England who thinks he's a person.  ;D

He was rejected by his mother and his fellow hatchlings, and he imprinted on his owner. Now he follows his owner everywhere--even drinks beer with him at the pub--and snuggles up with him to watch television.


He's probably just trying to impinge on us, to make us put him on the BM banner.   8)
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: Meryl on September 16, 2011, 08:38:47 pm

(http://i66.photobucket.com/albums/h269/merylmarie/Catchall/Spookycatanddog.jpg)

"For he loved a little dog..."
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: Jeff Wrangler on September 17, 2011, 02:03:43 am
(http://i66.photobucket.com/albums/h269/merylmarie/Catchall/Spookycatanddog.jpg)

"For he loved a little dog..."
Ghost cat!  :o
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: Kelda on September 17, 2011, 07:02:27 am
(http://i66.photobucket.com/albums/h269/merylmarie/Catchall/Spookycatanddog.jpg)

"For he loved a little dog..."
:laugh: :laugh: :laugh:

I see skimble and his adversary is also on the banner - cool!!
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: Marge_Innavera on September 17, 2011, 03:39:27 pm
Our one-eyed Shih Tzu, Otis, passed on in mid-June.  He was 16, and we'd had him since he was a five-week-old puppy that someone had thrown in a Dumpster.

One day when Otis was much younger, I had him out in the front yard and he spotted one of our chickens that had gotten out of the chickens' fenced enclosure.  The hen was about his size and he thought she was a playmate so he took off after her.  She squawked and started running, which he also thought was play and he actually caught her -- grabbed her by her tail feathers.  Unfortunately for Otis, he was a tiny dog and weighed about the same as the hen, and she just kept on running -- dragging a determined Shih Tzu behind her.

If we'd only had a camera running we could have entered it in one of those home video TV shows.  As it was, Otis eventually let go and both were unhurt, though the hen was still hysterical and Otis was disappointed.


(http://i135.photobucket.com/albums/q135/talkstocoyotes/eye-then.jpg)
...
about 7 weeks old


(http://i135.photobucket.com/albums/q135/talkstocoyotes/otistheicostume2.jpg) ............... (http://i135.photobucket.com/albums/q135/talkstocoyotes/Marcia_Otis_Irises1.jpg)
...
at 5 years, ready for a doggie costume contest .................... in front of our iris patch, spring 2010
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: Kelda on September 17, 2011, 04:21:35 pm
Awww. RIP Otis.
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: Penthesilea on September 17, 2011, 05:01:18 pm
............... (http://i135.photobucket.com/albums/q135/talkstocoyotes/Marcia_Otis_Irises1.jpg)
...
....................in front of our iris patch, spring 2010[/center]


You, the doggie, the irises - all beautiful. What a great picture.
Sorry to hear he's gone. Rest in peace, Otis.
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: delalluvia on September 17, 2011, 07:16:51 pm
You gifted Otis with a lovely, long doggy life.  He is resting peacefully.
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: Marge_Innavera on September 17, 2011, 10:12:56 pm
You gifted Otis with a lovely, long doggy life.  He is resting peacefully.

Yes, he did have a good life and we have a lot of happy memories of him.  Animals are like that.   :)
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: Sason on September 18, 2011, 10:08:18 am
The sight of the hen dragging along the doggie must have been hilarious!

RIP Otis.
Title: Animals In Our Lives -- RIP For "Hound"
Post by: Marge_Innavera on September 22, 2011, 09:24:28 am
I hope people will check back on this thread and read this story -- it's always timely for a discussion among pet lovers.  People sent in their own stories in Comments, including a doggie ghost story; and they're as touching as the story itself.  Anyone who's had pets for awhile eventually gets a "pet from hell" that's somehow special in its own way.



Hounded By Grief Over A Canine Companion
by Annmarie Kelly-Harbaugh

He has been trouble.

From the first second he stepped out of my car and ran far, far away to the recent whole chicken episode in the backyard. From the tunnels he dug under our fences to the path he swam to freedom when we lived on Chesapeake Bay. From the squirrels he treed and dismembered to the skunk that sprayed up his nose.

He has been a difficult Hound.

He has had fleas, ticks and worms, weeping eyes and seeping cysts. His first surgery cost more than my first car. Despite his slender frame, he has fought every dog he has ever come upon unleashed. Though he is neither strategic nor wise, Hound holds his own in these scuffs because he fights like a weasel: He bites hard and never lets go.

But he kept me company when I lived alone in Seattle and has barked off more predators than I care to count, including the thieves who broke in and stole tools while I slept. If Hound could have opened the French doors, I'd still have that nail gun, and he probably would have used it on the intruders himself.

Before bed, I always say, "Good boy, Hound. Good boy." Based on his history, he can have absolutely no idea what these words mean.

He's run away in swamps, forests and subdivisions. He's chased every motorcycle, no matter how far from our home it blazed. I imagined one day that's how he would go, a flash of brown and white loping away with my heart.

Instead Hound died of cancer. Not from a snakebite, a car accident or chocolate.

I found him at the top of the stairs. I put my head to his chest, unsure whether I heard his heart beating or mine. He was still warm when I carried him to the car, still soft as the vet laid him on the doggie stretcher and pronounced him gone. I have bid farewell to grandparents, neighbors and classmates, but I did not cry for them like I did for my Hound. He was my first dog, the great canine love of my life.

We shared only a decade, but I can hardly remember life before. I have imagined him into it all. We are children together: I'm climbing a tree with Hound nipping at my heels. He is barking at my first boyfriend and waiting at the back door when I tiptoe in after curfew. Hound is eating pizza in my college dorm. He nibbles on my bouquet as I prepare to walk down the aisle.

I am torn between being glad he's at peace and hoping he haunts me, not unlike a dog version of Patrick Swayze in Ghost. Dogs love us like we wish we could love others; they are faithful where we are feckless. For as long as they are able, they endure.

So today I'm wearing sweat pants, crying over chew toys and wondering about the future. I'm looking for my next big leap, a jump Hound knew we could no longer make together, but something I suspect he did not want me to miss.


http://www.npr.org/2011/09/20/140598522/hounded-by-grief-over-a-canine-companion

Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: Shakesthecoffecan on September 22, 2011, 10:41:49 am
That was a driveway moment for me in the middle of the road. Anyone who has had a pet they love could relate to her telling of her loss.
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: Penthesilea on September 22, 2011, 11:21:50 am
A couple of days ago was pushing a chair towards the dining table, automatically checking if Max doesn't lay there, like I did for the last ten years. It was his favorite place. Damn.
Yes, I can relate.
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: David In Indy on September 22, 2011, 07:05:34 pm
I see somebody put my raccoon picture up on the banner! YAY!!  :laugh: :laugh:

They still come around. Probably because I FEED them every night, along with some stray cats. At least I think they are stray. I put the scraps out for the raccoons during late afternoon, and the cats get fed early in the morning. It works out pretty good that way!

Did you know raccoons GRUNT like pigs? I never knew that! I was sitting out on the deck late one night and suddenly I heard all this grunting and snorting and it was surrounding me. Fortunately Jason (my niece's husband) was out there at the time and he told me it was the raccoons! I was getting ready to freak out and high tail it back into the house. The mother raccoon was coming up on the deck for the scraps and she had her babies with her, which were nearly full grown at the time. She must have been teaching them to fend for themselves and NOT depend on HER so much. Jason said they will snort and grunt to tell the other raccoons to stay away!

Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives -- RIP For "Hound"
Post by: delalluvia on September 22, 2011, 07:10:34 pm
I hope people will check back on this thread and read this story -- it's always timely for a discussion among pet lovers.  People sent in their own stories in Comments, including a doggie ghost story; and they're as touching as the story itself.  Anyone who's had pets for awhile eventually gets a "pet from hell" that's somehow special in its own way.



Hounded By Grief Over A Canine Companion
by Annmarie Kelly-Harbaugh

He has been trouble.

From the first second he stepped out of my car and ran far, far away to the recent whole chicken episode in the backyard. From the tunnels he dug under our fences to the path he swam to freedom when we lived on Chesapeake Bay. From the squirrels he treed and dismembered to the skunk that sprayed up his nose.

He has been a difficult Hound.

He has had fleas, ticks and worms, weeping eyes and seeping cysts. His first surgery cost more than my first car. Despite his slender frame, he has fought every dog he has ever come upon unleashed. Though he is neither strategic nor wise, Hound holds his own in these scuffs because he fights like a weasel: He bites hard and never lets go.

But he kept me company when I lived alone in Seattle and has barked off more predators than I care to count, including the thieves who broke in and stole tools while I slept. If Hound could have opened the French doors, I'd still have that nail gun, and he probably would have used it on the intruders himself.

Before bed, I always say, "Good boy, Hound. Good boy." Based on his history, he can have absolutely no idea what these words mean.

He's run away in swamps, forests and subdivisions. He's chased every motorcycle, no matter how far from our home it blazed. I imagined one day that's how he would go, a flash of brown and white loping away with my heart.

Instead Hound died of cancer. Not from a snakebite, a car accident or chocolate.

I found him at the top of the stairs. I put my head to his chest, unsure whether I heard his heart beating or mine. He was still warm when I carried him to the car, still soft as the vet laid him on the doggie stretcher and pronounced him gone. I have bid farewell to grandparents, neighbors and classmates, but I did not cry for them like I did for my Hound. He was my first dog, the great canine love of my life.

We shared only a decade, but I can hardly remember life before. I have imagined him into it all. We are children together: I'm climbing a tree with Hound nipping at my heels. He is barking at my first boyfriend and waiting at the back door when I tiptoe in after curfew. Hound is eating pizza in my college dorm. He nibbles on my bouquet as I prepare to walk down the aisle.

I am torn between being glad he's at peace and hoping he haunts me, not unlike a dog version of Patrick Swayze in Ghost. Dogs love us like we wish we could love others; they are faithful where we are feckless. For as long as they are able, they endure.

So today I'm wearing sweat pants, crying over chew toys and wondering about the future. I'm looking for my next big leap, a jump Hound knew we could no longer make together, but something I suspect he did not want me to miss.

Reminds me of James Thurber's short story collection My Life and Hard Times (a must read book, if you haven't read this) where in a chapter he recollects a childhood pet.  The chapter is called "The Dog that Bit People" and it's about their Airdale terrier named Muggs who was basically a terrorist to their friends and family.  A dog only his mother could love.  :)
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: Fran on September 22, 2011, 10:16:46 pm
Marge, belated condolences on the loss of your Otis.  Never enough time....
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: Marge_Innavera on September 23, 2011, 09:51:38 am
Marge, belated condolences on the loss of your Otis.  Never enough time....

No there isn't -- for anybody -- but we had Otis for 16 years and we're very grateful for that.

I keep wondering if we would value those we love as much if we did have enough time. 
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: Front-Ranger on September 23, 2011, 10:55:29 am
Well, I think we could continue our animals news banner with a whole new set of photos! I would love to see Otis and Max up there.  :'(  :-*
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: delalluvia on September 24, 2011, 03:10:42 pm
No there isn't -- for anybody -- but we had Otis for 16 years and we're very grateful for that.

I keep wondering if we would value those we love as much if we did have enough time. 

I think positively on it.  A line from the Anne Rice's "vampire" novels said something along the line of "How deep could love grow if you had an eternity to nourish it."
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: Fran on September 24, 2011, 05:43:55 pm
I'm pleased to report that cautious Ember has successfully completed her Shy Dogs class.  Life in the city was stressing her out and she was no longer enjoying her walks, so we sought help from the experts.  Early in the summer, she had some private in-home training sessions, and we followed them up with enrollment in a six-week Shy Dogs class which was taught by her trainer.  I can honestly say that Ember was the most "normal" dog in class.  She was definitely the teacher's pet.  

(http://i198.photobucket.com/albums/aa188/ffrraann/photo-2.jpg)

:)
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: Front-Ranger on September 24, 2011, 05:48:08 pm
Did she get over her shyness? How do you know? Is/was she shy with people, with other dogs, or both?
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: Fran on September 24, 2011, 07:31:17 pm
Did she get over her shyness? How do you know? Is/was she shy with people, with other dogs, or both?

Lee, I think Ember will always have shy tendencies, but at least now we have ways to deal with them.

Ember has always been good inside the house.  Being outside was another story.  It was as if someone flipped a switch.  We got her when she was 4-1/2 months old, and I think she was under-socialized as a puppy.  In fact, on the day we went to get her, we almost left with her brother when I saw that she was acting shy.  The last thing I wanted was a shy whippet... but during our visit, she gradually got friendlier, so I figured she was just slow to warm up to people.  Plus, she was so darn cute.... Her breeder lives in a big house (with a huge yard) in a quiet suburb, and when Ember came to live with us, she was scared to death of traffic noise, the sound of the elevated trains, etc.  Plus, it was the dead of winter.  

While Ember does get to run around at least once a week in my mom's yard, her daily exercise is walking on leash on city streets.  From the get-go, she was frightened of dogs she did not know. The first trainer we had suggested that I let Ember lead the way.  For example, if another dog was approaching and Ember wanted to turn around and walk in the opposite direction, I should let her.  We did this for a time -- all the time treating her when she acted bravely -- but progress was very s-l-o-w and Ember never got to the point where she would confront anything that scared her.  Even stepping off of the sidewalk into the grass while the dog passed wouldn't give her the space she needed; she wanted to flee.  The second trainer was in favor of "flooding" Ember with the things she feared.  He told me that once she was a year old, it would be too late for her.  He suggested taking her to the dog park at a quiet time when well-behaved, calmer dogs were there.  On our first visit, I asked him if Ember could fit through the wrought-iron bars in the fence.  He assured me she couldn't, but we were only there a couple of minutes when Ember (off leash) somehow managed to get her body halfway through the bars (nearly giving me a heart attack because I feared she'd slip all the way through and get hit by a car). Fortunately, the trainer reached her before she squeezed all the way through the bars. We put her back on leash, but she clearly did not want to be there.  We had a second session with that trainer at the dog park, but Ember clearly wasn't enjoying it, and I decided that I didn't care if she ever went to a dog park.

This past spring, Ember was getting increasingly skittish while out on walks.  Any dog coming towards her would freak her out, and she would make every attempt to flee.  She also was acting scared when people walked by, but once they passed, she would turn around and attempt to jump up on them from behind.  Her outside behavior was starting to stress me out, and I knew I had to do something.  For a time, I thought about sending her away to "doggy boot camp" for a couple of weeks, but I'm glad I didn't because I don't think those programs work well with soft dogs like Ember.

I finally Googled "Shy dogs Chicago" and found her current trainer.  The goals were simple:  I just wanted Ember to be able to walk past people and other dogs while on leash without freaking out.  On the trainer's first visit with Ember, she told me, "Just watch.  In five minutes, I am going to be your dog's new best friend." She was right.  In five minutes, Ember was literally eating out of her hand and sitting next to her on the sofa.  Once Ember got comfortable with the trainer, we took the training outside.  Long story short, while outside, I gave Ember a treat (freeze-dried liver) whenever she looked at me.  Then, whenever a dog was within view, I would say, "Where's the puppy?" in a happy voice, and once Ember looked at me, she got a treat.  For bikes, buggies, people, loud noises from trucks, I would say, "What's that?" in a happy voice and give her a treat when she looked at me.  We practiced practiced, and practiced, and now we're at the point where Ember will look at me automatically -- most of the time -- when a dog or a person is approaching.  She has come to associate "scary" things with getting a treat, so she no longer flips into panic mode like before when she would be so upset that she couldn't take a treat.

The Shy Dogs class was good because it got Ember around other dogs in a controlled setting.  Since Ember had worked privately with the trainer, she was calm in class and the teacher would often use Ember to demonstrate concepts. She really was the teacher's pet.

My neighbors who own dogs are amazed by the change in Ember.  I have to admit that they have been very helpful with her late socialization and very good about keeping their dogs under control while Ember was still getting to know them and very good about giving Ember treats when she was brave enough to approach them.  So, so far, so good.  
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: memento on September 25, 2011, 11:23:00 am
Congrats to Ember on her certificate of awsome doggy-ness.
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: delalluvia on September 25, 2011, 03:50:01 pm
Wow, good for you Fran for being so patient with Ember.  And good for Ember for being strong enough to overcome her shyness.

My Kabuki is a nervous breed.  I don't believe she was socialized much either as a kitten and strongly needed to be because of her high strung nature.  The airplane ride when she was shipped to me didn't help her mental state.  It's taken years, but now she lets me pick her up and love on her, when before she would immediately struggle to be put down.  I've always always always given positive feedback whenever I stroke, touch or pick her up and it's worked but I think she will always be a homebody.
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: Kelda on September 28, 2011, 05:02:54 pm
Stolen from facebook:

Quote
Please spay or neuter your pets! This is a tragic example of an in-bread cat!

(http://a3.sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-ash4/311405_165600716855227_110587475689885_336798_1487818732_n.jpg)
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: Sason on September 29, 2011, 04:03:47 pm
^^^^^^^^^^

 ;D ;D ;D
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: Marge_Innavera on September 30, 2011, 11:41:48 pm

There's been some discussion on this thread recently about the loss of a pet.  Here's an excerpt from Going Home: Finding Peace When Pets Die by Jon Katz.  It's a chapter from the book titled "The Perfect Day".  Knowing his dog's life expectancy is short, a man decides to give the animal a day filled with all his favorite things:

"It was a gray morning when the vet told Harry that his dog Duke's heart was failing and that it wouldn't be long before he died. Harry was not surprised, but still, the news depressed him. Listening to the vet, Harry later told me, he'd gotten an idea, one he thought would pay tribute to his life with Duke and give him something to feel besides sadness and loss.

" 'Tomorrow, I'm going to give you a Perfect Day,' he said quietly to Duke as they left the vet's office. He would take the day off from work and create a sweet memory with his dog. It would be a special day, filled with all the things Duke loved most, as close to perfect as Harry could make it. He would take his Canon PowerShot along to capture some images of the day, to preserve the memories."

Much of Katz' book is about his own experiences.  His tone is just right for the subject: compassionate, realistic, not over-sentimental but not afraid of honest sentiment either.


"One Perfect Day" at http://www.slate.com/articles/news_and_politics/heavy_petting/2011/09/the_perfect_day.html

Going Home: Finding Peace When Pets Die at Amazon:  http://www.amazon.com/Going-Home-Finding-Peace-When/dp/0345502698/ref=cm_cr_pr_product_top
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: Meryl on October 01, 2011, 05:49:34 pm
LOL!

[youtube=425,350]http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PuA6ZjpEJys&feature=player_embedded[/youtube]
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: Sason on October 02, 2011, 07:29:15 am
LOL!!

In Swedish we have a saying "being caught with your fingers in the jam jar".

I would say this is pretty much the best illustration of it I have ever seen!   :laugh: :laugh:
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: Kelda on October 02, 2011, 08:30:48 am
Brilliant Meryl!
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: CellarDweller on October 02, 2011, 12:02:32 pm
I snapped a few new pics of Blaze this weekend.



(http://i327.photobucket.com/albums/k463/dcfmod/family%20pics/Halloween2011004.jpg)
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: CellarDweller on October 02, 2011, 12:03:38 pm
(http://i327.photobucket.com/albums/k463/dcfmod/family%20pics/Halloween2011003.jpg)
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: CellarDweller on October 02, 2011, 12:04:39 pm
(http://i327.photobucket.com/albums/k463/dcfmod/family%20pics/Halloween2011002.jpg)
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: CellarDweller on October 02, 2011, 12:05:22 pm
(http://i327.photobucket.com/albums/k463/dcfmod/family%20pics/blaze2.jpg)
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: Penthesilea on October 03, 2011, 05:32:25 am
(http://i327.photobucket.com/albums/k463/dcfmod/family%20pics/blaze2.jpg)


So tempting to tousle with your hand through the fur. Does he tolerate it, or would you get slapped?
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: CellarDweller on October 03, 2011, 06:21:09 pm
slapped....scratched....bit...whatever he feels like....  :laugh:
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: delalluvia on October 03, 2011, 08:01:52 pm
There's been some discussion on this thread recently about the loss of a pet.  Here's an excerpt from Going Home: Finding Peace When Pets Die by Jon Katz.  It's a chapter from the book titled "The Perfect Day".  Knowing his dog's life expectancy is short, a man decides to give the animal a day filled with all his favorite things:

"It was a gray morning when the vet told Harry that his dog Duke's heart was failing and that it wouldn't be long before he died. Harry was not surprised, but still, the news depressed him. Listening to the vet, Harry later told me, he'd gotten an idea, one he thought would pay tribute to his life with Duke and give him something to feel besides sadness and loss.

" 'Tomorrow, I'm going to give you a Perfect Day,' he said quietly to Duke as they left the vet's office. He would take the day off from work and create a sweet memory with his dog. It would be a special day, filled with all the things Duke loved most, as close to perfect as Harry could make it. He would take his Canon PowerShot along to capture some images of the day, to preserve the memories."

Much of Katz' book is about his own experiences.  His tone is just right for the subject: compassionate, realistic, not over-sentimental but not afraid of honest sentiment either.


"One Perfect Day" at http://www.slate.com/articles/news_and_politics/heavy_petting/2011/09/the_perfect_day.html

Going Home: Finding Peace When Pets Die at Amazon:  http://www.amazon.com/Going-Home-Finding-Peace-When/dp/0345502698/ref=cm_cr_pr_product_top

I saw on an Animal Planet excerpt or PBS special I think about a couple who did something long term but similar.  They were child-free, and had this dog.  They loved this dog, it had been with them since they were married and the dog got diagnosed with a progressive cancer.  One leg had to be amputated.

The couple, owning their own business loved this dog so much, they decided to sell their business, buy an RV and take their dog on a road trip that would last until the poor animal could no longer travel.  Having fun, exploring new things...the dog was expect to last 6 months.   1.5 years later they were still traveling. 

It's sweet.
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: Shasta542 on October 04, 2011, 03:38:39 am
slapped....scratched....bit...whatever he feels like....  :laugh:

LOL! Why are they so ticklish on their bellies? Roxanne is the same. Sweet, but will retaliate if the tummy is touched.
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: Penthesilea on October 04, 2011, 03:55:32 am
slapped....scratched....bit...whatever he feels like....  :laugh:

LOL! Why are they so ticklish on their bellies? Roxanne is the same. Sweet, but will retaliate if the tummy is touched.


The behaviouristic answer: the underside is the most vulnerable part. Your dogs show it to demonstrate their submission "Look, I'm totally helpless, I surrender myself to your mercy, you're the boss"
Cats show it when they feel relaxed, safe, at ease. They trust you when they show their belly. But they don't surrender, so when you dare to touch it, you breach the bond of trust. It's a transgession in their eyes, thus you get punished.

The real answer: they're evil and like to lure you by presenting the fluffy, cuddly belly. ;)


But of course, they're all individuals. Some cats tolerate, even like it. Our Cäsar tolerates it from the girls, but not from Oliver or us adults.


Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: Shasta542 on October 04, 2011, 04:32:40 am
The real answer: they're evil and like to lure you by presenting the fluffy, cuddly belly.

 :laugh: :laugh: :laugh:
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: Kelda on October 04, 2011, 05:06:03 am
Its funny, my cat loves get his tummy rubbed!
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: Jeff Wrangler on October 04, 2011, 08:49:32 am
Its funny, my cat loves get his tummy rubbed!

Nobody brought any cats to church on Sunday for a blessing for our commemoration of St. Francis the Sissy of Assisi, whose feast day is actually today, October 4. There were lots of dogs and one gecko (he doesn't sell insurance; I asked), but no cats. No birds, either.  :(
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives: Meet Sausage (Loukanikos) the riot dog in Athens
Post by: Aloysius J. Gleek on October 09, 2011, 11:32:15 am



http://news.yahoo.com/photos/riot-dog-becomes-mascot-of-greek-protests-1318009447-slideshow/match-greece-dog-photo-151120415.html

Riot dog becomes mascot of Greek protests
Meet Sausage the riot dog, an amiable ginger mongrel resident of Syntagma Square in central Athens, who doesn't mind if you show up for a day of mayhem as long as he can join in. It's made him a local celebrity. He's appeared on the front of just about every newspaper in Greece and wagged his tail on TV screens and websites around the world. For the record: some people call him Kanellos -- Cinnamon. The Athens municipality, which has known him since 2006 as Dog Number 1842, prefers Loukanikos -- Sausage. Picture taken October 5, 2011. (Reuters YANNIS BEHRAKIS Thu, Oct 6, 2011)



(http://l3.yimg.com/bt/api/res/1.2/GjjjNY5xfB5.Wrr2heoLJQ--/YXBwaWQ9eW5ld3M7Zmk9aW5zZXQ7aD00MzA7cT04NTt3PTYzMA--/http://media.zenfs.com/en_us/News/Reuters/2011-10-06T151120Z_01_YAN01_RTRIDSP_3_GREECE-DOG.jpg)


(http://l.yimg.com/bt/api/res/1.2/YJaV.ZTHj.t5Sq8MFTNiPw--/YXBwaWQ9eW5ld3M7Zmk9aW5zZXQ7aD00MjI7cT04NTt3PTYzMA--/http://media.zenfs.com/en_us/News/Reuters/2011-10-06T151535Z_01_YAN03_RTRIDSP_3_GREECE-DOG.jpg)


(http://l2.yimg.com/bt/api/res/1.2/Kgnibp59_9rp6FPOImP6QQ--/YXBwaWQ9eW5ld3M7Zmk9aW5zZXQ7aD00MTg7cT04NTt3PTYzMA--/http://media.zenfs.com/en_us/News/Reuters/2011-10-06T151244Z_01_YAN02_RTRIDSP_3_GREECE-DOG.jpg)


Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: CellarDweller on October 09, 2011, 10:09:55 pm
The real answer: they're evil and like to lure you by presenting the fluffy, cuddly belly. ;)

 :laugh: :laugh: :laugh: :laugh:
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: Aloysius J. Gleek on October 17, 2011, 10:27:06 pm



http://www.bing.com/videos/watch/video/dog-plays-fetch-with-himself/1jrtp9wxp?q=Jokeroo&rel=msn&from=en-us_msnhp&form=msnrll

 :D :D :D :D
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: Aloysius J. Gleek on October 17, 2011, 10:35:06 pm


 :D :D :D :D :D :D


http://www.bing.com/videos/watch/video/puppy-plays-with-river-otter/1jr8hesut?q=Jokeroo&from=en-us_msnhp&rel=msn&cpkey=3c356a22-5460-498a-a013-d6e9d4904ee3%7cJokeroo%7cmsn%7c%7c



http://www.bing.com/videos/watch/video/cute-cat-plays-with-bird/1jr7lz0of?q=Jokeroo&from=en-us_msnhp&rel=msn&cpkey=3c356a22-5460-498a-a013-d6e9d4904ee3%7cJokeroo%7cmsn%7c%7c

Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: Aloysius J. Gleek on October 17, 2011, 10:41:44 pm



 :o :o :o :o :o :o :o :o :o :o :o :o

http://www.bing.com/videos/watch/video/clever-cat-plays-guessing-game/1jrfldxsx?q=Jokeroo&from=en-us_msnhp&rel=msn&cpkey=3c356a22-5460-498a-a013-d6e9d4904ee3%7cJokeroo%7cmsn%7c%7c

Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: Aloysius J. Gleek on October 18, 2011, 08:47:20 pm


Meanwhile. in Alaska--

[youtube=425,350]http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=AgLCdrcy0xQ&feature[/youtube]


Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: Front-Ranger on October 19, 2011, 09:55:36 am
Brave man to lay his bare hands on a bear cub!
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: delalluvia on October 20, 2011, 01:03:21 am
Poor baby bear.  I hope it found its mother.
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: CellarDweller on October 24, 2011, 09:26:01 pm
Not to bring down the thread, but remember this week is the week before Halloween.

Sunday is mischief night, or Devil's night, depending on where you live.  And then Monday is Halloween.

Fun time of year, however, it's also the time that sickos do things to animals.

Please remember that if you have pets, keep them indoors, and keep your eye on them, and the neighborhood in general.
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: David In Indy on October 28, 2011, 03:41:22 am
Not to bring down the thread, but remember this week is the week before Halloween.

Sunday is mischief night, or Devil's night, depending on where you live.  And then Monday is Halloween.

Fun time of year, however, it's also the time that sickos do things to animals.

Please remember that if you have pets, keep them indoors, and keep your eye on them, and the neighborhood in general.



YES!!!!

Thank you Chuck!! Thanks for this reminder!

People do TERRIBLE things to animals during Halloween, especially to black cats!! :'(   :'(

Please keep your pets SAFE this Halloween weekend!
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: Fran on October 31, 2011, 12:23:02 am
Here's my diva dog:

(http://i198.photobucket.com/albums/aa188/ffrraann/Ember/Picture7-1.png)
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: Shasta542 on October 31, 2011, 12:25:26 am
Here's my diva dog:

(http://i198.photobucket.com/albums/aa188/ffrraann/Ember/Picture7-1.png)


Beautiful!! Hope she gets lots of treats! :)
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: Front-Ranger on October 31, 2011, 10:05:18 am
So elegant! All she needs is a diamond studded leash!
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: southendmd on October 31, 2011, 11:37:32 am
(http://www.thegreatestgift.com/images/5010BoutiquePearlLeash.jpg)

Is this too matchy?

Lookin' good, Ember!
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: Jeff Wrangler on October 31, 2011, 12:01:55 pm
(http://www.thegreatestgift.com/images/5010BoutiquePearlLeash.jpg)

Is this too matchy?

Lookin' good, Ember!

I thought pearls were always in good taste.  ;D
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: Penthesilea on October 31, 2011, 01:05:18 pm
Here's my diva dog:

(http://i198.photobucket.com/albums/aa188/ffrraann/Ember/Picture7-1.png)



Très chic! :)
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: Aloysius J. Gleek on November 25, 2011, 04:59:16 am



http://www.cbsnews.com/8301-504784_162-57329586-10391705/blind-kitty-gets-his-first-toy/?tag=pop;stories



Blind kitty gets his first toy
By Bailey Johnson
November 22, 2011 11:46 AM


[youtube=425,350]http://www.youtube.com/watch?feature=player_embedded&v=lNpeTCEPrRk[/youtube]


(CBS) - Meet Oskar. Oskar was born completely blind, his eyeballs never formed. But his loving owners haven't let that stop them from providing Oskar with a good life. He's also become a bit of a celebrity cat, with a thriving YouTube channel and thousands of admirers. It's easy to see why. Watch this adorable feline get his first toy, and just try not to smile.

As his owners explain in the YouTube description:

I took this video the day after we adopted him. Since he is completely blind (born without formed eyeballs) we gave him some balls with bells inside. As you can tell, he can "see" them by using his ears! He is such a happy and inspiring cat -- we are blessed to have him with us.

Here's another video of Oskar playing. This time he's got a hold of a hairdryer.


[youtube=425,350]http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ElzPZNSdd5w&feature[/youtube]

Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: Aloysius J. Gleek on November 25, 2011, 05:17:35 am



(CBS) - Meet Oskar. Oskar was born completely blind, his eyeballs never formed. But his loving owners haven't let that stop them from providing Oskar with a good life. He's also become a bit of a celebrity cat, with a thriving YouTube channel and thousands of admirers. It's easy to see why.



[youtube=425,350]http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=m_QT0G7hWsk&feature=related[/youtube]


[youtube=425,350]http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CBrHXEYUR-o&feature=relmfu[/youtube]


[youtube=425,350]http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bYxFzahrqMs&feature=related[/youtube]


Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: Sophia on November 25, 2011, 10:39:29 am
so sweet, John
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: Kelda on November 25, 2011, 03:20:32 pm
Awwww.. thanks John, that's lovely!
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: Aloysius J. Gleek on December 01, 2011, 07:41:10 pm


http://www.theatlantic.com/international/archive/2011/12/under-pet-hating-dictator-a-hard-life-for-mans-best-friend/249139/


Under Pet-Hating Dictator,
a Hard Life for Man's Best Friend

The president of Turkmenistan is known for his eccentric disdain for cats and dogs

By Catherine A. Fitzpatrick
Dec 1 2011, 8:25 AM ET8


(http://cdn.theatlantic.com/static/mt/assets/international/assets_c/2011/12/turkmenistan%20dec1%20p-thumb-615x377-70793.jpg)
Turkmen President President Gurbanguly Berdymukhamedov / AP
 

There's nothing that gets President Gurbanguly Berdymukhamedov more crazy than stray dogs and cats -- whenever he spots them around the capital, especially if they run across his motorcade, he orders subordinates to have them destroyed.

Maybe he's obsessed with cleanliness in his sparkling white-marbled city; maybe he's spooked at the recollection of the coup attempt nine years ago this month on the motorcade of his predecessor, Saparmurat Niyazov.

As we know from WikiLeaks, in what has got to be the most bizarre cable from Ashgabat, the Turkmen leader has even fired military officials when a cat crossed his path.

The frequent presidential orders to exterminate dogs and cats has led many people to lose their pets, and they're getting fed up.

But one Ashgabat resident decided to stand up for man's best friend, the independent emigre web site chrono-tm.org (http://chrono-tm.org) reported.

Earlier this month, a man was walking his dog late at night near the Puppet Theater. Suddenly, police surrounded him, forced his arms behind his back and hauled him off to the police station, along with his dog.

It turned out that the president's motorcade had just happened to be speeding by at that moment. The man, whose name was not provided, was held for several hours in the police station. Police told him that they had received orders: either his dog would have to be shot, or he would have to serve 15 days in jail.

So to save his pet, the man decided to opt for the jail time. He was allowed one phone call, and asked his relatives to come and pick up the dog.

In the end, he served just 7 days of his sentence -- thanks to his relatives' appeals, he was released with a notice that he had been detained for "disturbing the peace."


This article originally appeared at EurasiaNet.org (http://EurasiaNet.org), an Atlantic partner site.
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: Kelda on December 02, 2011, 06:26:14 am
wow...



http://www.theatlantic.com/international/archive/2011/12/under-pet-hating-dictator-a-hard-life-for-mans-best-friend/249139/


Under Pet-Hating Dictator,
a Hard Life for Man's Best Friend

The president of Turkmenistan is known for his eccentric disdain for cats and dogs

By Catherine A. Fitzpatrick
Dec 1 2011, 8:25 AM ET8


(http://cdn.theatlantic.com/static/mt/assets/international/assets_c/2011/12/turkmenistan%20dec1%20p-thumb-615x377-70793.jpg)
Turkmen President President Gurbanguly Berdymukhamedov / AP
 

There's nothing that gets President Gurbanguly Berdymukhamedov more crazy than stray dogs and cats -- whenever he spots them around the capital, especially if they run across his motorcade, he orders subordinates to have them destroyed.

Maybe he's obsessed with cleanliness in his sparkling white-marbled city; maybe he's spooked at the recollection of the coup attempt nine years ago this month on the motorcade of his predecessor, Saparmurat Niyazov.

As we know from WikiLeaks, in what has got to be the most bizarre cable from Ashgabat, the Turkmen leader has even fired military officials when a cat crossed his path.

The frequent presidential orders to exterminate dogs and cats has led many people to lose their pets, and they're getting fed up.

But one Ashgabat resident decided to stand up for man's best friend, the independent emigre web site chrono-tm.org (http://chrono-tm.org) reported.

Earlier this month, a man was walking his dog late at night near the Puppet Theater. Suddenly, police surrounded him, forced his arms behind his back and hauled him off to the police station, along with his dog.

It turned out that the president's motorcade had just happened to be speeding by at that moment. The man, whose name was not provided, was held for several hours in the police station. Police told him that they had received orders: either his dog would have to be shot, or he would have to serve 15 days in jail.

So to save his pet, the man decided to opt for the jail time. He was allowed one phone call, and asked his relatives to come and pick up the dog.

In the end, he served just 7 days of his sentence -- thanks to his relatives' appeals, he was released with a notice that he had been detained for "disturbing the peace."


This article originally appeared at EurasiaNet.org (http://EurasiaNet.org), an Atlantic partner site.
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: Aloysius J. Gleek on December 13, 2011, 01:17:13 am


http://money.msn.com/family-money/article.aspx?post=7d6c20f1-fdc6-4db1-90b5-4e9d64d3755e


Italian cat becomes hairy heir
A former stray cat in Rome joined the ranks of the world's
richest animals when its owner left it $13 million.

By Giselle Smith
Mon, Dec 12, 2011 6:17 PM



It's hard to imagine an heir more indifferent to his huge inheritance than Tommaso.

The 4-year-old Italian black cat -- a former stray on the streets of Rome -- is apparently now the richest cat in the world, according to the International Business Times.

Tommaso inherited an estate worth $13 million when its owner, Maria Assunta, died two weeks ago at the age of 94, The Telegraph  reported. Assunta was the widow of a property tycoon, and had no children or living relatives.

Assunta's estate included a large bank balance and property in Rome, Milan and Calabria, but Tommaso's care was entrusted to the nurse who cared for the cat's owner in her final months. In fact, because Italian law doesn't permit animals to inherit property, the attorney for the estate gave the cat and his fortune to Assunta's former nurse.

Tommaso now lives with Assunta's caretaker, Stefania, at an undisclosed location outside Rome. "I had no idea the signora had such wealth," she told The Guardian.


Other famously wealthy pets

Tommaso is the latest in a long line of pets that became millionaires upon the death of their wealthy owners.

Leona Helmsley's Maltese, Trouble, was probably the most famously wealthy pet when his owner died in 2007, leaving $12 million to the dog. The dog itself passed away in June, at the age of 12, and the money reverted to the Helmsley Charitable Trust, The Street  reported.

Other rich animals include Alexander McQueen's dogs ($82,000) and Michael Jackson's chimp, Bubbles ($1 million). Oprah Winfrey's dogs are set to inherit $30 million, according to Woman's Day.

However, none are as wealthy as an Alsatian dog named Gunther IV, who inherited a fortune worth about $372 million from a German countess, according to The Guardian.


Increasing popularity of pet trusts

An increasing number of pet owners are seeking to make provisions for their pets in their wills, according to Gerry W. Beyer, a professor at Texas Tech University School of Law.

"It is something that has gone from almost a comical thing to something that people take very seriously and want…. People are sometimes more interested in taking care of their pets than their families," Beyer told the Chicago Tribune.

A pet trust is a legally sanctioned arrangement that provides for the care and maintenance of one's pet (or pets) when its owner dies or becomes disabled. Funds are left in the care of a trustee, who can care for the pet or identify a caretaker.

According to Beyer's website, ProfessorBeyer.com (http://ProfessorBeyer.com), a trust might cover:

Food, toys and cages
Grooming
Socialization
Medical care
Compensation for a caregiver
Guidelines for how the caregiver should document expenses
Instructions for disposal of the pet’s remains



Most states have enacted pet trust laws, but specifics vary by state. Some impose funding limits, and a few limit the duration of the trust to 21 years -- a potential hardship if the deceased's pet is a parrot, which can live up to 90 years.

A list of 44 state pet trust laws is available on the ASPCA website.

Alas even someone as wealthy as Helmsley can't always get what she wants when it comes to leaving money to a pet. Though she famously left the bulk of her estate to the dog, a judge reduced the $12 million bequest to about $2 million. In addition, the judge overturned her directive that the charitable trust be used for animal welfare, and allowed the trustees to distribute Helmsley’s assets to any charities they chose, according to the Washington University in St. Louis newsroom.

Furthermore, Helmsley had requested that Trouble be buried in the mausoleum beside her and her late husband, Harry Helmsley, but by law, animals cannot be buried in human cemeteries.

What will happen to your pets when you die? Have you considered creating a pet trust to care for them?

Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: Fran on December 16, 2011, 02:09:56 pm
(http://i198.photobucket.com/albums/aa188/ffrraann/Ember/Picture7-2-3-1-1.png)
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: delalluvia on December 16, 2011, 07:21:07 pm
What will happen to your pets when you die? Have you considered creating a pet trust to care for them?

I'll have my cats timed.  Depending upon my own health, and knowing how long on average pets live, if my health holds, I know at what age I need to stop owning pets.  Once the last generation passes, then I won't own any more pets.  I'll start fostering, therefore if anything happens to me, my family won't have to worry about taking care of my pets.  They'll just contact the foster animal people and they'll come and collect the animals.

And Seasons Greetings to Ember

 :-* :-* :-* :-* :-*

and Fran.  :)
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: Sason on December 16, 2011, 07:53:50 pm
(http://i198.photobucket.com/albums/aa188/ffrraann/Ember/Picture7-2-3-1-1.png)


Thanks Ember cutie!

Right back atcha, and please tell your mum too!
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: Front-Ranger on December 16, 2011, 10:51:55 pm
Thank you, Fran and Ember.  :-*
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: Kelda on December 27, 2011, 07:31:24 pm
This made me giggle for about 10 minutes straight..

[youtube=425,350]http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3GRSbr0EYYU&feature=plcp&context=C3254079UDOEgsToPDskJNGdRYoOItGF-Z0Lshv2XD[/youtube]
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: Meryl on December 27, 2011, 08:42:28 pm
 :laugh:  :laugh:  :laugh:
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: Sason on December 28, 2011, 04:48:03 am
What's he shouting apart from Jesus Christ?

I can't hear it.
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: Kelda on December 28, 2011, 08:22:23 am
Fenton - the name of the dog..
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: Sason on December 28, 2011, 09:35:47 am
Fenton - the name of the dog..

I see, thanks.


Well, there's someone who should have been on a short fucking leash!
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: Kelda on December 29, 2011, 02:09:06 pm
I see, thanks.


Well, there's someone who should have been on a short fucking leash!

 :laugh:
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: Marge_Innavera on January 05, 2012, 02:54:52 pm
Here's a video with a very high "aw-w-w-w-w-w quotient" baby pandas at play:


[youtube=425,350]
[/youtube]
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: Meryl on January 08, 2012, 12:22:34 am
Sadly, I had to say goodbye to my beautiful little Sylvie tonight.  Some of you have met her, and Sophia took this pretty picture of her last summer.  She'd been ill for awhile and finally reached the point tonight when it was clear her time was at hand (she was fourteen).  A very kind vet came to the apartment and helped us through the transition.  Rest in peace, dearest Syl.  :-*

(http://i66.photobucket.com/albums/h269/merylmarie/Family/SylviebySophia2.jpg)
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: southendmd on January 08, 2012, 02:56:08 am
So sorry for you loss, Meryl.  What a sweet kitty. 
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: David In Indy on January 08, 2012, 04:07:54 am
{{{{{{MERYL}}}}}}

I am so sorry for your loss, honey! Pets are a part of our families, and it is very painful when something like this happens!!!

Based on the picture, she was a beautiful cat!
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: Penthesilea on January 08, 2012, 06:40:58 am
(((Meryl)))

I'm very sorry for your loss.
I'm glad for you both that the vet came into your house, and she was spared the stress and anxiety. She looked like a very sweet cat.
Thinking of you, Meryl. :-*
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: Sason on January 08, 2012, 07:12:45 am
I'm so sorry for your loss, Meryl.

She looks beautiful.
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: Kelda on January 08, 2012, 08:11:21 am
((((meryl)))

I can imagaie that was very difficult for you to do but best for Slyvia..

Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: Meryl on January 08, 2012, 01:44:16 pm
Thanks, buds, for your kind responses.  Virtual hugs are wonderful to receive and help ease the pain.  Love you!  :-*
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: CellarDweller on January 08, 2012, 02:55:54 pm
(http://i273.photobucket.com/albums/jj227/rockygirlcat/Sentiments/214915.jpg)


Just this side of heaven is a place called Rainbow Bridge.
When an animal dies that has been especially close to someone here, that pet goes to Rainbow Bridge. There are meadows and hills for all of our special friends so they can run and play together. There is plenty of food, water and sunshine, and our friends are warm and comfortable.
 
All the animals who had been ill and old are restored to health and vigor. Those who were hurt or maimed are made whole and strong again, just as we remember them in our dreams of days and times gone by. The animals are happy and content, except for one small thing; they each miss someone very special to them, who had to be left behind.
They all run and play together, but the day comes when one suddenly stops and looks into the distance. His bright eyes are intent. His eager body quivers. Suddenly he begins to run from the group, flying over the green grass, his legs carrying him faster and faster.

You have been spotted, and when you and your special friend finally meet, you cling together in joyous reunion, never to be parted again. The happy kisses rain upon your face; your hands again caress the beloved head, and you look once more into the trusting eyes of your pet, so long gone from your life but never absent from your heart.

Then you cross Rainbow Bridge together.... 

Author unknown...
 

(((((Meryl)))))
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: Sophia on January 08, 2012, 04:40:39 pm
Sylvie was such a sweetheart. I fell in love with her instantly. We bonded directly. She were not afraid of anything. Even thou she had never seen me before, she let me cuddle with her and eat some of Meryls lovely food from my hand.   :-* :-*
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: Aloysius J. Gleek on January 10, 2012, 06:35:45 pm

http://nymag.com/daily/entertainment/2012/01/shit-gay-guys-say-to-their-cats.html


Watch
‘Sh*t Gay Guys Say to Their Cats’

It's funny because it's true.



[youtube=425,350]http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JUdZxO4FIxE&feature[/youtube]
Uploaded by richfofo (http://www.youtube.com/user/richfofo) on Jan 10, 2012

Also:
http://fourfour.typepad.com/fourfour/2012/01/shit-gay-guys-say-to-their-cats.html
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: Sophia on January 10, 2012, 06:50:20 pm
 ;D

So tell me John, when shall I book my flight for the wedding? Spring? Autumn?  :)
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: Aloysius J. Gleek on January 10, 2012, 07:09:35 pm


;D

So tell me John, when shall I book my flight for the wedding? Spring? Autumn?  :)

 :laugh: :laugh: :laugh: :laugh: :laugh: :laugh: :laugh: :laugh: :laugh: :laugh: :laugh: :laugh: :laugh:

Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: Sophia on January 10, 2012, 07:50:35 pm

 :laugh: :laugh: :laugh: :laugh: :laugh: :laugh: :laugh: :laugh: :laugh: :laugh: :laugh: :laugh: :laugh:



 ;D I knew it!!!

How far have you come? Catcake, Catmusic, catsuit..... I am so EXCITED!!!
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: Fran on January 11, 2012, 02:02:04 am
Meryl, so sorry to hear about Sylvie. Never enough time with our beloved pets, never enough.  :(
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: Meryl on January 11, 2012, 12:10:06 pm
Thanks, Fran, and Sophia and Chuck, and everyone.   :-*
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: Jeff Wrangler on January 11, 2012, 01:24:41 pm
Sadly, I had to say goodbye to my beautiful little Sylvie tonight.  Some of you have met her, and Sophia took this pretty picture of her last summer.  She'd been ill for awhile and finally reached the point tonight when it was clear her time was at hand (she was fourteen).  A very kind vet came to the apartment and helped us through the transition.  Rest in peace, dearest Syl.  :-*

I don't drop into this thread often, so I'm just seeing this now. I'm so sorry to hear this, Meryl.  :'(
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: Meryl on January 11, 2012, 02:05:03 pm
I don't drop into this thread often, so I'm just seeing this now. I'm so sorry to hear this, Meryl.  :'(

Thanks, bud.  :-*
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: Aloysius J. Gleek on January 15, 2012, 09:42:32 am




[youtube=425,350]http://www.youtube.com/watch?feature=player_embedded&v=fNPDbDwpHHw[/youtube]
.





Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: Fran on January 16, 2012, 11:32:11 pm
Well, Ember has a new brother.  He's actually her nephew. (Her sister had puppies in September.)

She is less than thrilled, but she's a cautious girl under the best of circumstances. It will definitely take some time before they are best buds. Today was better than yesterday, so I'm feeling a bit more optimistic. 

(http://i198.photobucket.com/albums/aa188/ffrraann/photo-5-1.jpg)

As for his name, I'm not sure. His breeder had been calling him "Foggy," but that doesn't exactly roll off the tongue.  Whatever his name is, he's going to puppy class tomorrow.

In the meantime, I'm exhausted.  You know, this really seemed like a good idea at the time.  :)
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: Meryl on January 17, 2012, 12:13:31 am
Congratulations, Fran!  He's absolutely beautiful.  8)  8)  8)

For she loved a little dog..... :-*
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: Penthesilea on January 17, 2012, 01:49:04 am
Well, Ember has a new brother.  He's actually her nephew. (Her sister had puppies in September.)

She is less than thrilled, but she's a cautious girl under the best of circumstances. It will definitely take some time before they are best buds. Today was better than yesterday, so I'm feeling a bit more optimistic. 

(http://i198.photobucket.com/albums/aa188/ffrraann/photo-5-1.jpg)

As for his name, I'm not sure. His breeder had been calling him "Foggy," but that doesn't exactly roll off the tongue.  Whatever his name is, he's going to puppy class tomorrow.

In the meantime, I'm exhausted.  You know, this really seemed like a good idea at the time.  :)


What a nice surprise! Congrats on the new friend. :)

Quote
You know, this really seemed like a good idea at the time. 

 :laugh:
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: southendmd on January 17, 2012, 01:57:56 pm
Congrats, Fran.  I love the photo:  Auntie Ember looks like she's keeping a close eye on the new guy.  

He's adorable, with ?brindle patches.

"Foggy"?  I guess one could get used to it.  
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: Sason on January 17, 2012, 02:38:46 pm
Congrats, Fran!

He's beautiful. I like that they are related.

Hope they get used to each other real soon.
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: Kelda on January 17, 2012, 03:08:56 pm
Aww! very cute, hello Foggy!
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: Jeff Wrangler on January 17, 2012, 03:31:54 pm



[youtube=425,350]http://www.youtube.com/watch?feature=player_embedded&v=fNPDbDwpHHw[/youtube]
.

When I was a kid we had neighbors who had a dachshund who could do that--and she didn't have to be held by a human to do it.
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: Fran on January 17, 2012, 06:13:24 pm
Thanks for the good wishes/comments regarding the new addition.

Yes, Paul, those are brindle patches.  Out of eight puppies, four of each sex, he was the only brindle one.  Everyone else is fawn and white.

Foggy is now Forest, after his birthplace of Lake Forest, Illinois.

His performance in puppy class was only so-so as he was a bit distracted, this being his first time there.  (This was our first week but everyone else's second.)  He did manage to make it to and from class (with a couple of errands in between) without throwing up in the car.  As I told the people in puppy class, this one is on probation, but things are looking up.  :)

Ember has taken to humping him -- so major kudos to my timid girl.  If he stays, I think she's going to rule the roost.  
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: southendmd on January 17, 2012, 06:41:39 pm
You know what happens when Ember meets Forest?


(http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-5uCO_dXr8ms/TuID5B_8tYI/AAAAAAAAAMM/NSOa2PPBAnc/s400/Forest+Fires.png)

Watch out!







Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: Fran on January 18, 2012, 03:58:54 pm
You know what happens when Ember meets Forest?


(http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-5uCO_dXr8ms/TuID5B_8tYI/AAAAAAAAAMM/NSOa2PPBAnc/s400/Forest+Fires.png)

Watch out!
Yikes!  Well, here's hoping that's really a Blaze meets Forest visual. :)
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: delalluvia on January 18, 2012, 11:44:10 pm
Quote
Ember has taken to humping him

 :laugh: :laugh: :laugh: :laugh:

Welcome Forest!

Run Forest!  Run!!!

 :laugh:
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: Fran on January 19, 2012, 10:34:25 am
Run Forest!  Run!!!

 :laugh:

LOL at the Forrest Gump reference.
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: bentgyro on January 19, 2012, 07:12:38 pm
Your boy looks lovely!
My present whippet, now six, is a joy but I remember when he was an 8 week old puppy!
I was seriously questioning my sanity for awhile but was worth it in the end.
I take my boy to work every day and he sleeps in his daybed all day.

Whippets are very missunderstood, most people think they are hyper but I've never owned one.
I tell people that if they want a good watch dog, don't get a whippet.
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: Fran on January 19, 2012, 09:18:46 pm
Your boy looks lovely!
My present whippet, now six, is a joy but I remember when he was an 8 week old puppy!
I was seriously questioning my sanity for awhile but was worth it in the end.
I take my boy to work every day and he sleeps in his daybed all day.

Whippets are very missunderstood, most people think they are hyper but I've never owned one.
I tell people that if they want a good watch dog, don't get a whippet.

Oh, wow!  Another whippet owner at Bettermost!!!!  I'd love to see a photo of your boy when you have a chance.  What's his name?

Here's a recent photo of Forest:

(http://i198.photobucket.com/albums/aa188/ffrraann/photo-8.jpg)

I'm pleased to say that he's fitting in nicely, knock on wood.  He had a vet visit today and weighed in at 21.6  pounds.
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: Kelda on January 20, 2012, 05:10:49 am
Your boy looks lovely!
My present whippet, now six, is a joy but I remember when he was an 8 week old puppy!
I was seriously questioning my sanity for awhile but was worth it in the end.
I take my boy to work every day and he sleeps in his daybed all day.

Whippets are very missunderstood, most people think they are hyper but I've never owned one.
I tell people that if they want a good watch dog, don't get a whippet.

Welcome bentgyro!
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: David In Indy on January 21, 2012, 08:14:50 am
Well, Ember has a new brother.  He's actually her nephew. (Her sister had puppies in September.)

She is less than thrilled, but she's a cautious girl under the best of circumstances. It will definitely take some time before they are best buds. Today was better than yesterday, so I'm feeling a bit more optimistic. 

(http://i198.photobucket.com/albums/aa188/ffrraann/photo-5-1.jpg)

As for his name, I'm not sure. His breeder had been calling him "Foggy," but that doesn't exactly roll off the tongue.  Whatever his name is, he's going to puppy class tomorrow.

In the meantime, I'm exhausted.  You know, this really seemed like a good idea at the time.  :)



Awwwwww!!!! How CUTE!!!! Just look at his cute little furry face!!!

"Forest"

I love the name!

I am quite certain both he and Ms Ember will get along just fine!
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: Aloysius J. Gleek on January 21, 2012, 09:34:34 am




[youtube=425,350]http://www.youtube.com/watch?feature=player_embedded&v=6ntDYjS0Y3w[/youtube]
Uploaded by Volkswagen on Jan 18, 2012




Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: Fran on January 21, 2012, 12:10:44 pm
Awwwwww!!!! How CUTE!!!! Just look at his cute little furry face!!!

"Forest"

I love the name!

I am quite certain both he and Ms Ember will get along just fine!

Thanks, David.

Here's a close-up of Forest:

(http://i198.photobucket.com/albums/aa188/ffrraann/Ember/photo-5-3.jpg)

I've yet to get a good shot of him and Ember together.  It's hard to photograph perpetual motion, and the photos of them stopping to drink from the water bowl are, let's face it, boring.
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: Fran on January 21, 2012, 12:12:30 pm
Run Forest!  Run!!!

Del, you wouldn't believe how many times I've said this to him since I read your post.  Love it!!!  :)
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: Fran on January 21, 2012, 12:17:04 pm
[youtube=425,350]http://www.youtube.com/watch?feature=player_embedded&v=6ntDYjS0Y3w[/youtube]
Uploaded by Volkswagen on Jan 18, 2012

Love this.  What a clever ad!!! And, of course, I'm smitten with the whippet at the end.   :)
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: delalluvia on January 21, 2012, 03:43:13 pm
Del, you wouldn't believe how many times I've said this to him since I read your post.  Love it!!!  :)

 ;D

I daresay your friends and family and neighbors will soon take it up as well.

I LOVE the two of them!!
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: Aloysius J. Gleek on January 21, 2012, 10:06:03 pm


Love this.  What a clever ad!!! And, of course, I'm smitten with the whippet at the end.   :)



(http://iruntheinternet.com/lulzdump/images/starwars-dog-costume-walker-AT-AT-1318171495l.jpg)  (http://www.modelosaescala.com/wp-content/uploads/2009/12/starwarsatat.01.jpg)


 ;D ;D ;D


Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: Front-Ranger on January 21, 2012, 10:26:22 pm
Sweet!
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: ifyoucantfixit on January 21, 2012, 11:00:21 pm



    :-*    :-*   Foggy the doggie...
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: delalluvia on January 22, 2012, 12:48:29 pm

(http://iruntheinternet.com/lulzdump/images/starwars-dog-costume-walker-AT-AT-1318171495l.jpg)

That is the best costume for a dog!!!  :laugh: :laugh:

(http://i129.photobucket.com/albums/p223/michellekm35/yodadog.jpg)

(http://i89.photobucket.com/albums/k217/Charons_Claw/Starwarscat.gif)
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: Fran on January 25, 2012, 11:46:00 pm
(http://i198.photobucket.com/albums/aa188/ffrraann/Ember/photo-5-4-1-1.jpg)
Tennis, anyone?
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: Penthesilea on January 26, 2012, 01:34:11 am
(http://i198.photobucket.com/albums/aa188/ffrraann/Ember/photo-5-4-1-1.jpg)
Tennis, anyone?


Who yould resist such a cute proposal? Makes me go awwww :)
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: Aloysius J. Gleek on January 26, 2012, 06:23:06 pm



This cat's not only seen the movie,
he must be a Kubrick buff.
[youtube=425,350]http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CY87P-rDHus&feature=relmfu[/youtube]


[youtube=425,350]http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=U8Q3X5Gw5I4&feature=related[/youtube]
&feature
;) ;D



Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: delalluvia on January 27, 2012, 12:34:03 am
(http://i198.photobucket.com/albums/aa188/ffrraann/Ember/photo-5-4-1-1.jpg)
Tennis, anyone?

Look at those doggy ears and eyes.  So full of hopeful anticipation.  :-* :-* :-*
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: Aloysius J. Gleek on January 27, 2012, 02:36:30 pm




(http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/thumb/4/40/MadlHatterByTenniel.svg/382px-MadlHatterByTenniel.svg.png)
[youtube=425,350]http://www.youtube.com/watch?feature=player_embedded&v=DlS3w1GGE8g[/youtube]


Video: Dormouse snores while sleeping in zookeeper’s hand

The dormouse hibernates for long periods, spending up to one third of its entire life asleep. This particular rodent is a resident of the Surrey Wildlife Trust.  Surrey mammal project officer Dave Williams shot the video and the Surrey Wildlife Trust is accepting donations as part of their dormouse project, which seeks to help protect the endangered animal.

http://news.yahoo.com/blogs/sideshow/video-dormouse-snores-while-sleeping-zookeeper-hand-222847067.html

Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: Fran on February 02, 2012, 09:48:22 pm
Today I was in the kitchen, checking e-mail, when I realized that things were awfully quiet.  I went to investigate, and this is what I found in the living room:

(http://i198.photobucket.com/albums/aa188/ffrraann/Ember/photo-5-6-1.jpg)

Ember and the new guy sharing a bully stick!   :)
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: David In Indy on February 03, 2012, 02:32:06 am
Have you seen this cute Volkswagen commercial yet? It's been airing here in Indianapolis for the past week or two!

CUTE!!!!

It's called "The BARK side"! lol


[youtube=425,350]http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6ntDYjS0Y3w&feature=youtu.be[/youtube]
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: Kelda on February 03, 2012, 05:24:17 am
Louise posted a link to the Puppy Bowl on facebook earlier this week David - it reminded me of you!

Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: Sason on February 03, 2012, 03:15:00 pm
Today I was in the kitchen, checking e-mail, when I realized that things were awfully quiet.  I went to investigate, and this is what I found in the living room:

(http://i198.photobucket.com/albums/aa188/ffrraann/Ember/photo-5-6-1.jpg)

Ember and the new guy sharing a bully stick!   :)

Aw, that's cute, Fran!

So now they're best buddies?
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: Fran on February 03, 2012, 04:40:32 pm
So now they're best buddies?

We're getting there.  They play very rough, and someone is always letting out a yelp, it seems.  When they are out of control, one or both of them get sent to their crate(s) for a few minutes.  But so far, no blood has been spilled, and no one is missing any body parts.  :)

Our dog trainer said to separate them when their playing gets to be too intense to give them a couple of minutes to calm themselves.  They are getting better at self-regulating their play (automatically stopping or running to get a drink of water), but they've still got a way to go before they're BFFs.

I posted their bully stick photo on a whippet website I post at, and people were amazed that they were sharing food.  The comments were along the lines of "My dogs would never share food. No way."

I hope I'm not jinxing myself here, but I think Forest is the best thing that ever happened to Ember.  She is eating better -- finishing all of her food -- and she seems much happier.  Plus, she is much more outgoing when we have visitors.  I am so thankful that Ember's breeder gave Forest to us. 
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: Sason on February 03, 2012, 05:00:21 pm
It sounds really good, Fran!  :)
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: David In Indy on February 03, 2012, 06:26:52 pm
Louise posted a link to the Puppy Bowl on facebook earlier this week David - it reminded me of you!



I watch it every year! lol

 8)  :)
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: delalluvia on February 04, 2012, 06:12:39 pm
We're getting there.  They play very rough, and someone is always letting out a yelp, it seems.  When they are out of control, one or both of them get sent to their crate(s) for a few minutes.  But so far, no blood has been spilled, and no one is missing any body parts.  :)

Our dog trainer said to separate them when their playing gets to be too intense to give them a couple of minutes to calm themselves.  They are getting better at self-regulating their play (automatically stopping or running to get a drink of water), but they've still got a way to go before they're BFFs.

I posted their bully stick photo on a whippet website I post at, and people were amazed that they were sharing food.  The comments were along the lines of "My dogs would never share food. No way."

I hope I'm not jinxing myself here, but I think Forest is the best thing that ever happened to Ember.  She is eating better -- finishing all of her food -- and she seems much happier.  Plus, she is much more outgoing when we have visitors.  I am so thankful that Ember's breeder gave Forest to us. 

Soooo cute!

Wonder if Ember is now finishing her food because she's afraid if she doesn't, Forest will.  She didn't have to worry about that before.
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: bentgyro on February 04, 2012, 07:40:55 pm
That is the best costume for a dog!!!  :laugh: :laugh:

(http://i129.photobucket.com/albums/p223/michellekm35/yodadog.jpg)

(http://i89.photobucket.com/albums/k217/Charons_Claw/Starwarscat.gif)

These could be more additions to the e-mail of Why Dogs Bite! :laugh:
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: CellarDweller on February 08, 2012, 06:19:28 pm

Yesterday, Blaze was dropped off at the vet.  There's nothing wrong, it's been about a year or so since his last check up, so it's just a quick "once over" and grooming session.  Of course, because of Blaze's temperment, the vet will have to sedate him before the bath, nail clipping and haircut.


When we went to pick him up, the vet carried him out in the carrier, and when he put his hand near the front of the door, we could hear Blaze growl and hiss.

::)

We got him home and he was a bit wobbly from the sedative, but within a few hours, he was back to his normal self.

Well...........as normal as he could be considering how he looks now!    :D :D :D

As you know from seeing pictures, Blaze is a bit heavy, so mom has decided he's on a diet, only getting fed at specific times, and much less food.  Surprisingly, he's coping with it rather well.   Anyway, one of the reasons he's on the diet is he seems to be less limber, and perhaps not cleaning himself as well, hence, the grooming.  Mom thought that his long fur might be an issue, so she asked the vet to trim him down a bit.

Apparently, the vet thought "trim him down" meant a #2 clipper.  Blaze now looks like a black lion.  Poofy head, very short fur on the body, poof at the end of his tail.


As a reminder, here are two shots of Blaze before the vet trip.


(http://i327.photobucket.com/albums/k463/dcfmod/family%20pics/Halloween2011004.jpg)
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: CellarDweller on February 08, 2012, 06:20:40 pm
(http://i327.photobucket.com/albums/k463/dcfmod/family%20pics/Halloween2011002.jpg)
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: CellarDweller on February 08, 2012, 06:22:04 pm
and here is Blaze now.

















(http://i327.photobucket.com/albums/k463/dcfmod/family%20pics/lion001.jpg)
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: CellarDweller on February 08, 2012, 06:23:54 pm
(http://i327.photobucket.com/albums/k463/dcfmod/family%20pics/lion002.jpg)


 :laugh: :laugh:
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: Sason on February 08, 2012, 06:52:32 pm
OMG Chuck, I literally LOLed!!   :laugh: :laugh:

He looks too funny!

I think you should keep him from mirrors, he might get depressed if he gets to see himself!  ;D

He's still very sweet though, and his fur will grow out again soon enough.
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: delalluvia on February 08, 2012, 07:38:45 pm
:laugh:

Poor Blaze looks disgusted.
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: Fran on February 08, 2012, 10:53:51 pm
Yikes!  Poor Blaze.
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: Penthesilea on February 09, 2012, 03:19:43 am
 :laugh: :laugh: :laugh:

(Sorry Blaze, can't help it.)
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: David In Indy on February 09, 2012, 03:55:35 am
Awww POOR Blaze!!!  :laugh:  :laugh:

He's such a cute cat though. He still looks cute even with his fur shaved off!  8)
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: David In Indy on February 09, 2012, 03:56:01 am
These could be more additions to the e-mail of Why Dogs Bite! :laugh:

Welcome to Bettermost, Bentgyro!!
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: Kelda on February 09, 2012, 04:11:48 pm
Callum came through and asked what i was laughing it.. Poor Blaze!

(Callum lol'd too!)
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: ifyoucantfixit on February 10, 2012, 10:29:59 pm

  OH MY GOD!!   I laughed myself silly.  That poor cat.  He looks humiliated.  No wonder he was growling and hissing...

    :laugh:    :laugh:    :laugh:    ::)    ::)    ::)    :laugh:    :laugh:    :laugh:


    I bet he wants to say, "I lost some weight, now leave me alone."   If looks could kill, that first one, would have left you all dead..

'
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: ifyoucantfixit on February 13, 2012, 11:40:34 pm
             Animals  that don't care:  No prejudices there.  They accept everyone

             http://today.msnbc.msn.com/id/44902484/ns/today-today_pets_and_animals/displaymode/1247/?beginSlide=1#.TznW2FHSut8
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: Fran on February 14, 2012, 09:58:32 am
(http://i198.photobucket.com/albums/aa188/ffrraann/Ember/photo-9-1-1-1-1.jpg)
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: Sason on February 14, 2012, 02:57:07 pm
Aww....what cuties, Fran!
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: ifyoucantfixit on February 14, 2012, 03:41:24 pm
  Is your older dog, now accepting the new one more?   They are so lovely.  Majestic looking.  I love dogs, and these are particularly beautiful.

  Mine is a cute little Llhasa Apso..  Spoiled rotten, just like we like her..
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: Fran on February 14, 2012, 07:10:21 pm
Thanks, Sonja and Janice.

Janice, in answer to your question, I think so.  I certainly hope so.  Yesterday I crated them together in Ember's crate, and I'm happy to report that they both settled down next to each other and rested. 
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: delalluvia on February 14, 2012, 08:20:16 pm
(http://i198.photobucket.com/albums/aa188/ffrraann/Ember/photo-9-1-1-1-1.jpg)

Awww.  :-*
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: bentgyro on February 15, 2012, 01:08:33 am
Whippets are pretty sociable.
I see that a whippet bitch won 3rd in the hound group at Westminster.
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: Fran on February 15, 2012, 08:25:49 am
Whippets are pretty sociable.
I see that a whippet bitch won 3rd in the hound group at Westminster.

I saw that. She's gorgeous!!!
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: Aloysius J. Gleek on February 17, 2012, 06:33:36 pm




[youtube=425,350]http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=laTVSCWRiZQ&feature=related[/youtube]





http://www.nydailynews.com/news/world/bulldog-adopts-wild-boar-piglets-germany-article-1.1024160


(http://cdn-ugc.cafemom.com/gen/resize/342/227/80/2012/02/17/14/cy/rz/po8e55tao8.jpg)

French bulldog
adopts six wild boar piglets
at Germany animal sanctuary


Baby the dog has taken the animals under her wing
after raising cats and raccoons


THE ASSOCIATED PRESS
Friday, February 17, 2012, 7:00 AM


(http://assets.nydailynews.com/polopoly_fs/1.1024158!/img/httpImage/image.jpg_gen/derivatives/landscape_635/image.jpg)
Baby, who has also raised raccoons, cats and other animals, has stuck by the piglets since they
were brought to the sanctuary.




BERLIN — Forget the three little pigs hiding from the big bad wolf. These six little pigs have found a new friend in a maternal French bulldog named Baby.
 
The Lehnitz animal sanctuary outside Berlin said Baby took straight to the wild boar piglets when they were brought in Saturday, three days old and shivering from cold.
 
Sanctuary worker Norbert Damm said Wednesday that, as soon as the furry striped piglets were brought in, Baby ran over and started snuggling them and keeping them warm, even though they're almost her size.

The 8-year-old bulldog has stayed right by their side since then, making sure they're OK, Damm said.
 
"She thinks they're her own babies," Damm said.
 
It isn't the first time Baby's taken to new guests at the sanctuary — she's also raised raccoons, cats and many other animals, Damm said.
 
"She's an uber-mother," he said.


(http://assets.nydailynews.com/polopoly_fs/1.1024159.1329486246!/img/httpImage/image.jpg_gen/derivatives/landscape_635/image.jpg)

Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: ifyoucantfixit on February 18, 2012, 07:22:09 pm


  That is so dang cute.  I wonder what she is going to do in a couple of months, when they are twice her size?
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: delalluvia on February 19, 2012, 08:59:29 pm
Oh, gods, yes, I saw the doggie with the little piggies and just melted all over my seat.  SO cute!!!
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: David In Indy on February 20, 2012, 05:39:56 am
HOW CUTE!!!!!!
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: Penthesilea on February 20, 2012, 02:22:09 pm
From the "smells like cat piss (and that's bad enough)" department:

This afternoon, it smelled like cat piss in my house. In the kitchen, the office, the dining room, but at worst in the floor/corridor, directly behind the entrance door. We looked everywhere, moved around stuff - you get the picture. Nothing.
I just couldn't imagine my Cäsar pi$$ing inside the house. :-\

Then I noticed it also smelled like cat piss in front of the door. We sniffed at the door mat - nothing again.
Finally, finally we found it.

(http://i575.photobucket.com/albums/ss192/Penthesilea09/12f9435e.jpg)

Since our walls are about one and a half foot thick, the cat flap is at the end of a small tunnel, and at the outside there's a frame around the hole. And exactly that frame had gotten peed on. I guess for marking purposes.
I don't know if it was Cäsar or another cat. I saw two different huuuge tomcats in our garden in the last days. There's some cat war going on on our property.  :P

Bad as it is, I was relieved that Cäsar indeed did NOT pee inside the house.
I scrubbed the frame, and it's better now. Hope those damn cats will take their peeing contests elsewhere. >:(
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: Sason on February 20, 2012, 03:10:52 pm
Yuck. That's even worse than a pup tent, Chrissi.   :P

Glad you found it at last.
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: Aloysius J. Gleek on February 20, 2012, 06:05:54 pm




[youtube=425,350]http://www.youtube.com/watch?feature=player_embedded&v=8fwXeBCMrT4[/youtube]
:D




Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: Sason on February 20, 2012, 06:10:10 pm
That's a cat that knows what it wants!  :)
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: Kelda on February 20, 2012, 06:20:10 pm
It's the fact his wee ears are down too that makes him even cuter!
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: Aloysius J. Gleek on February 20, 2012, 07:12:29 pm




It's the fact his wee ears are down too that makes him even cuter!


That's because (no joke!) it's a 'Scottish Fold'!   :D
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: Aloysius J. Gleek on February 20, 2012, 07:27:39 pm



That's because (no joke!) it's a 'Scottish Fold'!   :D



[youtube=425,350]http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RIbgVubaEvw[/youtube]



Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: Kelda on February 21, 2012, 05:27:23 am
Aww!
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: Sason on February 21, 2012, 01:53:04 pm
I wonder how the folded ears affect their hearing.
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: trekfan on February 21, 2012, 05:09:40 pm
It's the fact his wee ears are down too that makes him even cuter!

it looks like a Scottish Fold,  their ears are naturally that way.    he is SO cute!   our female siamese cat (lynx point)  likes to let you know when she wants attention.  head rubs,  pawing  and meows too

Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: Aloysius J. Gleek on February 26, 2012, 08:18:34 pm



WHICH one would you choose??

 :D :laugh:




http://www.buzzfeed.com/babymantis/who-does-cosplay-better-cats-or-dogs-1opu


Spider-Man
(http://s3-ak.buzzfed.com/static/enhanced/web05/2012/2/23/21/enhanced-buzz-29084-1330049520-0.jpg)



Darth Vader
(http://s3-ak.buzzfed.com/static/enhanced/web05/2012/2/23/20/enhanced-buzz-19506-1330045361-0.jpg)



Batman
(http://s3-ak.buzzfed.com/static/enhanced/web05/2012/2/23/20/enhanced-buzz-19506-1330047147-9.jpg)



The Joker
(http://s3-ak.buzzfed.com/static/enhanced/web04/2012/2/23/20/enhanced-buzz-6928-1330045882-76.jpg)




Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: ifyoucantfixit on February 26, 2012, 11:07:53 pm
  My favorites,,,

1st  Pug Vadar
2nd Kitty Joker
3rd  Tuxedo kitty Batman..
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: Sason on February 27, 2012, 12:42:27 pm
Animals are living creatures, not stuffed toys.

I don't think it's right to dress them up like that.
It's not for the benefit of the animal, just for their owners to enjoy themselves at the expense of the animal.

And make up on a dog.....!!!!!!!!  >:(
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: Kelda on February 28, 2012, 11:45:15 am
Dogs, apart from the Joker!
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: Aloysius J. Gleek on March 05, 2012, 04:18:51 pm



http://www.newser.com/article/d9t9v61g3/dog-survives-53-days-in-nevada-desert-bolts-from-crash-that-kills-1-owner-injures-other.html


Dog survives 53 days in Nevada desert,
bolts from crash that kills 1 owner, injures other

Dog survives 53 days in wild, reunited with owner
By MARTIN GRIFFITH | Associated Press |
Mar 4, 2012 4:56 PM CST


(http://img1-cdn.newser.com/getimage.aspx?docid=c2ec049f-c485-43c0-9fe2-69a1c1bea052&source=a&width=300&height=250&crop=n)
This Feb. 18, 2012 photo provided by Shannon Sustacha
shows Barbara Bagley and her Shetland sheepdog Dooley
after the two were reunited, east of Battle Mountain, Nev.
Bagley says she never gave up hope...



Barbara Bagley says she never gave up hope that her dog would be found alive in the Nevada desert after the animal bolted from the scene of a crash that critically injured her and killed her husband.

But the Salt Lake City woman endured plenty of frustration until her beloved 4-year-old Shetland sheepdog, Dooley, was tracked down Feb. 18 after surviving 53 days in the wild on roadkill and scattered ranch water sources.

"I would think about Dooley constantly," she said. "There were TV commercials with dogs that made me think about him and cry. He's just the sweetest dog."

The Dec. 27 single-vehicle accident on Interstate 80 near Battle Mountain, about 225 miles (360 kilometers) east of Reno, sent Bagley and her 55-year-old husband, Brad Vom Baur, to the hospital in critical condition. Their other sheltie, Delaney, was killed in the wreck. Dooley ran away and vanished.

Bagley, 48, suffered a concussion, broken ribs, a shattered wrist and two punctured lungs. As soon as she mustered up enough strength, she turned her attention to a search for her dog in the sprawling sage-covered plains and hills of northeastern Nevada.

Realizing what Dooley could mean for her recovery, dozens of Nevada volunteers responded to a Facebook plea for help in looking for him. But the search was canceled before it began after the Jan. 6 discovery of what appeared to be the dog's remains along the interstate. The same day, her husband died.

"It was a horrible day for me," Bagley recalled. "But something inside me told me Dooley was still alive out there. I wasn't 100 percent sure, but I didn't grieve for Dooley like I did for my husband and our other dog."

More than three weeks later, Bagley's spirits were buoyed after a woman reported spotting "a Lassie-type" dog near the accident scene. A subsequent search joined by Bagley turned up nothing, but a railroad crew spotted a dog matching the same description in mid-February in the same area about 15 miles (24 kilometers) east of Battle Mountain.

Further searches netted a positive identification of Dooley but frustration as well because the skittish dog kept fleeing from Bagley and other searchers. Finally, Shannon Sustacha of Lamoille, who was on horseback, and a Bagley friend driving a Jeep cornered Dooley only five miles (eight kilometers) from the crash scene. The friend managed to nab the sheltie and put him in the Jeep.

An ecstatic, tearful Bagley arrived at the scene a short time later.

"Barbara got next to us and said three times, `You think he'll remember me?'" Sustacha said. "When Barbara opened the door and looked at him, she said, `My beautiful boy, my beautiful boy, you're home.' Oh, boy, all of us cried. I knew his adventure in Nevada was over. I also knew he and Barbara could start healing together."

A short time later, an exhausted Dooley sat on his owner's lap in the Jeep and fell asleep. He later began following Bagley around.

"I was overjoyed that I was going to have him back in my life. I think he felt the same about me," she said.

During his ordeal, Dooley's weight dropped from 44 pounds (20 kilograms) to 20 pounds (nine kilograms). He was once spotted devouring a dead coyote along the roadway. A long bird bone was pulled from his throat by a veterinarian.

Since then, the dog has gradually put on weight and resumed regular walks with his owner. While Bagley is still going through the grieving process over her husband's death and recovering from her injuries, Dooley's presence has picked up her spirits immensely.

"He's the physical and mental affection that I need to recover," she said. "I owe him so much for the hope I have now and the renewed faith I have in prayer. Dogs are so great because of their unconditional love."

Bagley, a phlebotomy supervisor at LDS Hospital in Salt Lake City, also thinks her husband had something to do with Dooley's safe return home.

"It's a message from my husband who was looking out for him," Bagley said. "It was a miracle that we got Dooley. He couldn't have survived much longer out there."
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: Aloysius J. Gleek on March 05, 2012, 10:14:45 pm




Remember this guy?
[youtube=425,350]http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rGEqWzw8A9g&feature[/youtube]


Ha!
[youtube=425,350]http://www.youtube.com/watch?feature=player_embedded&v=7YmXdeRXqv8[/youtube]



Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: Meryl on March 07, 2012, 02:08:20 am
Ha, that is indeed one happy dog!  Dude, maybe think about cutting down on the caffeine.  ;D
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: Fran on March 07, 2012, 02:10:59 pm
Check out the "Amazing Ball-Bopping Whippet":

[youtube=425,350]lydiR_zJXng[/youtube]

:)
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: Sason on March 07, 2012, 02:37:10 pm
LOL!

Now you know what to do if you have too much time on your hands, Fran!  ;D
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: ifyoucantfixit on March 07, 2012, 06:28:35 pm
    What an amazingly uplifting and wonderfully heartwarming story.  I had heard of this story on the news, but did not truly read all the details.
I have been sick, and have only spent a short amount of time studying the news and such..

                                                       Thanks for posting that..Janice


   Love that happy dog video... I once had a little White terrier.  She loved to play with other dogs.  She was sitting in the car, and spied a
dog in a field like that.  She jumped down and started doing that same thing all the way across the field of wheat.  She bounced and bounced across that field for about 100 yrds, and so excited, she suddenly stopped about 10 feet before she reached him, and planted her feet dead still. 
She turned around and started walking back to us, and we saw how sad she was, and how frightened, when she realized that he was a huge black and brown shepherd, about three times her highth, probably ten times her weight.  It was so cute, and so funny at the same time...poor thing she never got another romp quite like that one.
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: Penthesilea on March 08, 2012, 09:49:32 am
It's been a long time coming....
We're ready for another dog. :D

Already started looking online, and seeking contact on the phone. But I don't know yet what type of dog it will be.

This (something like this):

(http://i575.photobucket.com/albums/ss192/Penthesilea09/ecad93c2.jpg)

(http://i575.photobucket.com/albums/ss192/Penthesilea09/5d0eaa70.jpg)

(http://i575.photobucket.com/albums/ss192/Penthesilea09/e492deea.jpg)



Or this (pretty exactly like this):

(http://i575.photobucket.com/albums/ss192/Penthesilea09/8c77e918.jpg)

(http://i575.photobucket.com/albums/ss192/Penthesilea09/7346a786.jpg)

(http://i575.photobucket.com/albums/ss192/Penthesilea09/f12d1569.jpg)




A dog from a shelter or a dog from a breeder?
My heart has always belonged to the shelter/rescure animals. Max was from a shelter, too. And the cats came into our lives by their own choice, they were also "second-hand" pets.

I never even contemplated the thought of getting a dog from a breeder. But then I totally fell for the Black Großspitz ( black German Large Spitz). I've always thought they're beautiful dogs.
They're robust, both in health and in character. A sensitive, shy dog would not fit in our houehold. I need a stable, robust dog with good nerves. And an easy dog. I don't want a dog that is too intelligent and too active, and certainly no working dog (Border Collie, Malinois, etc.).

The German Spitz is all that I want in a dog and nothing of the things I don't want. Very good with children and other animals around the house, barely any hunting instincts, no tendency for straying. Perfect fit.

There is no chance to get a Big German Spitz from a rescue organization. They are high up on the red list of almost extinguished breeds. Nowadays people rather get exotic breeds like Samojede, Akita Inu etc, without thinking much about the needs of such dogs. If you look at a white German Large Spitz and a Samojede, they are almost the same in exterior, but the Spitz is way less challenging. Yet Samojedes are much more popular than Spitz dogs. ::)

So, what to do?
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: Sason on March 08, 2012, 03:50:16 pm
Whatever you decide to do, good luck with it, Chrissi!

And show us pictures when you finally get the dog, please!  :D
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: CellarDweller on March 08, 2012, 04:00:13 pm
I don't hold anything against anyone who has gone to a breeder to get a pet, it's their right to do so.

All of the cats my family has owned have been "rescues".

Tina was a neighborhood stray who wouldn't come stay in our house, but we fed and we took her to the vet when she seemed ill.

Cupcake came from the shelter.

Midnight was taken from a neighbor who was moving and couldn't take him with her, there was a "no pet" clause to where she was going.

Blaze was a feral/wild kitten that my brother and sis-in-law found in their backyard.  Already owning a cat and two dogs, they couldn't keep the new kitten, so we took him in.
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: bentgyro on March 08, 2012, 04:50:28 pm
I went from Rottwiellers to Whippets.  Whippets are easy to own.....they are not hyper, just look like it.
I used to show and breed Rotts and after the last one passed, I looked for something new, and, voila, I am a
whippet person.  They are lazy and if you want a good watchdog, a dog to obey and stay off the furniture,
bed, etc, don't get a whippet!
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: bentgyro on March 08, 2012, 05:24:02 pm
My cat is a rescue cat.
However, I have owned purebred, registered dogs since 1970 and I enjoy the history behind the breeds.
As one of my dog judge friend had observed, purebred dog breeders produce the dogs that all
the crossbreed people need.
The study of how breed evolved is facinating.  Whippets were bred to go and hunt small game and when
they were sucessfull, they just had to lie around and wait until the next time they were needed.
Rottwielers were bred to herd cattle and guard the farm....so they want to know what's going on and what
can they do to protect everything.  The whippet asks "is there someone here?" after he has struggled out from
under the bedcovers.  And most whippets aren't fighters and as they get older, they don't like rough dogs.
The neighbors have a large pitbull cross female that absolutely adores my whippet and if she spots him, will
come running over to see him and he sniffs noses, her butt, then he ditches her.  She always looks so forlorn.
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: Sason on March 08, 2012, 06:52:05 pm
Chrissi, do you have a piano?

If so, you may consider this to happen with your new dog: 


[youtube=425,350]http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VTOCjBpcbww[/youtube]


 :laugh: :laugh: :laugh:
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: Fran on March 08, 2012, 07:22:46 pm
Chrissi, whatever you decide, I know you'll end up with the perfect dog for you and your family.

Enjoy the search.  I bet your kids are very excited about the new addition.  :)
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: Aloysius J. Gleek on March 08, 2012, 09:29:15 pm



Gosh, some animal companions
are getting so smart!
[youtube=425,350]http://www.youtube.com/watch?feature=player_embedded&v=h57yh2AarNw[/youtube]
;D


Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: Penthesilea on March 09, 2012, 01:45:42 am
Thank you Sonja, Chuckie, bentgyro and Fran, for your input. :)


Chrissi, whatever you decide, I know you'll end up with the perfect dog for you and your family.

Hope so.


Quote
Enjoy the search.  I bet your kids are very excited about the new addition.  :)

The girls, yes. Oliver doesn't know yet. He'd get too excited, and possibly havingt to wait another half year for a puppy he'd be a pain in the :-X every day about it.

I went back to the forum I frequented before BBM; it's a dog owners' forum. Great to see so many of the old names still there. And guess what? I'll meet up with a woman from the forum tomorrow! :)
There's a dog show not far from me, and German Spitze will be shown. That's a good chance to get an overview, talk to different breeders, get to know Spitze from different bloodlines, etc. The woman who told me about the show will also be there, she's a breeder for Berger de Pyrenees.


Before BBM, I nver would have met up with anyone I know from the internet ( :laugh: :laugh: :laugh:). In all the years I spent in that forum I always excluded the thought categorical. But after travelling many a thousand miles to meet with other Brokies...... ;D
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: Penthesilea on March 14, 2012, 02:06:47 pm
I looked at  dog at an animal shelter yesterday. Pretty, pretty thing, she's a Spitz-mix and only 9 months old.

(http://i575.photobucket.com/albums/ss192/Penthesilea09/33cf0f7f.jpg)

(http://i575.photobucket.com/albums/ss192/Penthesilea09/c0565123.jpg)


But I'm not sure she's the right dog for us. In fact, I rather think not. :-\

She's so totally, completely freaked out. Such a scared dog, it's horrible to witness. The only thing she tries to do is hide, get away from all humans as fast and as far as possible.
On the good side, she is definitively NOT a fear-biter. She lets everybody do anything to her (when you're able to catch her and put her on a leash, that is). People can handle her, pet her, the vet can handle her, she would never bite or do anything else but try to melt into the ground.

She doesn't even take treats from humans, or eat as long as humans are close, too scared and stressed out for that.
Sadly, none of "her" people, meaning helpers who already succeded in making contact with the dog, people who she knows well and has started to trust them, were at the shelter yesterday. I would have liked to see how much better (or not) the dog is with well-known people.


Poor, poor doggie. Because she's so young and absolutely non-aggressive the shelter people think she can go into a household with children (older children, like mine are) nonetheless. They are of the firm believe that she will come around and become a well-adjusted dog.


And here I am, not able to put this dog out of my mind. She's a dog who needs a chance, who needs people with a lot of patience and some dog-sense.
And I'm sitting here, asking myself if I want to be that person....
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: Kelda on March 14, 2012, 05:56:24 pm
She IS a cutie!
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: Fran on March 14, 2012, 08:45:12 pm
She IS a cutie!

She sure is.

Poor thing.  How is she with other dogs?  Still scared? 
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: bentgyro on March 15, 2012, 01:47:36 pm
Do you have a lot of time and patience?
That's what it will take to bring her around.
She does look sweet.
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: Aloysius J. Gleek on March 16, 2012, 11:39:23 pm

http://www.buzzfeed.com/katienotopoulos/endangered-african-cat-born-to-housecat-surrogate


Endangered African Cat
Born to Housecat Surrogate

Scientists planted an embroyo of the critically endangered African
Black-footed Cat in a regular domestic cat. This little fluffball, named
Crystal, is the first inter-species embryo transplant of its kind.


(http://s3-ak.buzzfed.com/static/enhanced/web04/2012/3/16/13/enhanced-buzz-17827-1331919608-19.jpg)


[youtube=425,350]http://www.youtube.com/watch?feature=player_embedded&v=cvl6u979rzo[/youtube]
Uploaded by AudubonInstitute on Mar 13, 2012


Audubon Center for Research of Endangered Species in Algiers, Louisiana logs another breakthrough in genetic engineering of endangered cats. Crystal, a rare african black-footed kitten was born on February 6, 2012 to a domestic housecat without any human assistance in the birth itself. Crystal exhibits all the characteristics of a black-footed cat despite being nurtured by a domestic cat mother.






http://www.nola.com/education/index.ssf/2012/03/audubon_center_in_algiers_logs.html


Audubon center in Algiers logs another breakthrough
in genetic engineering of endangered cats


By Mark Waller, The Times-Picayune
Published: Tuesday, March 13, 2012, 8:00 AM


(http://media.nola.com/tpphotos/photo/2012/03/10676294-standard.jpg)
Crystal and her mother


A year after introducing the first pair of rare African black-footed kittens conceived through in vitro fertilization, the scientists at the Audubon Center for Research of Endangered Species in Algiers have announced the arrival of another kitten that, genetically, is their sister, and the first kitten of her type to be carried in the womb of a domestic cat. The same parents contributed to the frozen embryos that produced the two males born last year and this year's female.

A black-footed cat served as the surrogate mother for last year's litter. Researchers next sought to show that vastly more plentiful domestic cats can serve as surrogate mothers in efforts to save the small wild cat from extinction.

"Being able to use domestic cats adds another extra dimension to that, being able to produce more," said Earle Pope, acting director of the center. Only 53 of the cats, which are native to South Africa, live in zoo collections in the United States.
 
Domestic and African black-footed are different species of cat but members of the same group of felines. Their similar sizes and gestation lengths, Pope said, appear to be what made the pregnancy and birth physically possible even though the genetic makeup of the kitten differed from the mother.
 
"They're considered to be of the same lineage," he said. "Somewhere back a couple of million years ago, they're descended from the same ancestor."

The kitten, named Crystal, was born on Feb. 6 to domestic cat Amelie without any human assistance in the birth itself. It exhibits all the characteristics of a black-footed cat despite being nurtured by a domestic cat mother, Pope said.
 
"It's not changed genetically in any way," from other black-footed cats, he said. "It is totally a black-footed cat in behavior."
 
Researchers handle the kitten almost every day as they study it, but she remains decidedly unadapted to human contact.
 
"It just wants you to leave it alone and stay away from it," Pope said. "It gets along beautifully with the domestic cat mother. They don't know, or do not care, that it's a different species."
 
Scientists started gathering the genetic material that eventually created the kitten in 2003, when they collected and froze a sperm sample from a black-footed cat named Ramses that lived at a research center in Nebraska. In 2005, they thawed the sperm and combined them with eggs from Zora, a cat living at Audubon. That produced 11 embryos, which went into deep freeze.
 
The center thawed some of the embryos to produce last year's brothers and thawed more on Dec. 2 to produce Crystal.
 
The embryos can be frozen indefinitely, preserving their genetic information for years if kept at exactly the right temperature, Pope said.
 
The researchers weren't certain the pregnancy with the domestic cat would work, however, because their attempts to implant cloned black-footed cat embryos in domestic cats have failed so far. Cloned embryos are created by combining cellular material to create new eggs, not by using eggs taken in their entirety from black-footed cat females.
 
Solving the problem of using cloned embryos will be one of the next steps in the center's long history of breakthrough genetic work, which includes a previous birth of another type of wild kitten to a domestic cat, the first wildcats born to cloned parents, the cloning of sand cats, caracal cats and African wildcats and even a kitten born with eyes, gums and a tongue that glow green under ultraviolet light. That showed it is possible to introduce a new gene to an animal without hurting it, which has medical ramifications for humans in the development of gene therapy. The center also works on reproduction programs for endangered birds: Mississippi sandhill cranes and whopping cranes.
 
Audubon Senior Scientist Martha Gomez said she has created cloned embryos using egg cells from domestic cats and replacing their nuclei with material from skin cells of African black-footed cats. Using skin cells potentially expands the methods of producing kittens even further because the cells are numerous and can be saved from animals that have died.
 
But none of the pregnancies have lasted, Gomez said. The arrival of Crystal narrows the field of possible causes by proving domestic cats can carry black-footed kittens. Gomez said she now can focus on fixing flaws in the genetic information of the cloned embryos.
 
"It's the embryos," she said, "the quality of the embryos."
 
In addition to working out the glitches in the cloning process, Gomez said the center next will explore using domestic cats as surrogates for a more distantly related type of threatened wild cat, the rusty spotted cat, also from Africa.
 
"This is exciting," she said about the birth of Crystal, "because now we can go forward in research."
 
Mark Waller can be reached at [email protected] or 504.826.3783. Follow him on Twitter at MarkWallerTP or Facebook at Mark Waller Times-Piayune.

Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: Penthesilea on March 20, 2012, 05:06:17 pm
We've got a dog! We've got a dog! :D

The decision is made and we will pick up our new family member next week.

This is Tina, our new baby. The black doggie of course, not the tiny one.

(http://i575.photobucket.com/albums/ss192/Penthesilea09/47294f7e.jpg)


The decision came in a completely different way than I had thought it would.
Like I already said, I visited Lisa last week and was very unsure if she's the right dog for us. Later last week, we visited a breeder of German Spitz. I was totally convinced of the way she keeps her dogs, and I found the woman sympatico and full of dog-sense. Not to mention her dogs, who are all perfectly impinted on humans and carefully brought up.


Anyway, she had one puppy left over from the last litter, but it was already sold and was to be picked up Sunday.
The breeder plans another litter soon (different bitch of course) and is waiting for the bitch to get in heat. Yadda, yadda, long story short: I was 90% sure that I wanted a dog from her and was willing to wait roundabout half a year for a dog.
I put my name on the waiting list.

The other 10% were still thinking about a dog from a shelter, but I was sure it wouldn't be Lisa. As much as I pity her, she is all that I never wanted in a dog.


This evening, the breeder called me: the people who wanted to pick up the puppy on Sunday opted out last minute. She offered the puppy to us and the decision was made in a heartbeat. All stars were aligned.

Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: Fran on March 20, 2012, 06:19:27 pm
Congratulations, Chrissi! I'm so happy for you.

Your kids must be going crazy with anticipation. Waiting is hard. Hope the time flies by.
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: bentgyro on March 20, 2012, 07:59:57 pm
Pretty puppy!
May you have a long and happy life together!
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: Meryl on March 20, 2012, 10:45:55 pm
Congratulations on your new family member, Chrissi!  She looks adorable.  8)

I'll be choosing a new buddy for my cat Vinny in the next few weeks, too.  It's lovely to anticipate another furry little one around the apartment.
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: Sason on March 21, 2012, 02:19:14 pm
Congrats on the new family member, Chrissi!

She looks very sweet in the picture.
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: Aloysius J. Gleek on March 21, 2012, 10:55:38 pm



Lion cubs say goodbye to park worker with hugs

[youtube=425,350]http://www.youtube.com/watch?feature=player_embedded&v=3nZP9kaLFf4[/youtube]
Uploaded by MrDhamilton84 (http://www.youtube.com/user/MrDhamilton84) on Jan 14, 2010


Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: Kelda on March 22, 2012, 05:44:30 am
Congrats Chrissi She looks v cute!
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: Penthesilea on March 22, 2012, 08:04:02 am
Thank you, everyone! :)

I did some doggie shopping today. This is so much fun! :D
Collar, harness, leash, food and water bowl, 2 dog beds and some toys.

Why 2 dog beds, I hear you ask? ;D
Well, our Mäxi had to sleep alone downstairs for 8 years, before he finally conquered our bedroom for the last 2 years of his life. Once he was in there, we both noticed how much we like to have the dog with us at night. We love listening to the fussing of the dog while he is getting comfortable for the night, and one of the best sounds in the whole, wide world is the deep, satisfied dog sigh (rather grunt) that follows and signals the end of the day.
It says "DONE" and the world is good.

So our new cutie needs two dog beds, one downstairs during the day, and one upstairs in our bedroom. As a side effect I hope to have her house-trained faster that way. If the puppy had to sleep alone downstairs, she would have no other possibility than to pee (or worse) inside the house in case of an urgent need.

I never had a puppy before and thought I have time till summer to read up on raising a puppy. Now I feel kinda unprepared. But I tell myself I managed to raise three babies, I'll manage with a puppy. 8)

Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: Fran on March 22, 2012, 08:23:32 am
Chrissi, will you be using a crate?

Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: Penthesilea on March 22, 2012, 08:38:33 am
Chrissi, will you be using a crate?

Not sure yet. To be honest, you are the only person I've ever heard of using a crate. Before Ember, I had only heard rumors that Americans use them to raise puppies. People here frown at it. I don't. I think it's the same as playpens for kids: it's the way you use it that makes the difference between a short-time shelter and a prison.

Tell me more about it, willya? Did Ember sleep in there at night? Or did you only use it during the day, when you had to leave the house for an hour or so?
I can see the advantage of short time use during the day. Staying strictly at home or taking the little dog with you all the time can be impossible sometimes. I can run errands in the afternoon instead, but things like doctor's appointments sometimes just have to be done in the morning.
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: Penthesilea on March 22, 2012, 10:24:49 am
Tell you what: your question really made me think. Thanks for that.

The more I think about it, the more I think a crate might really be helpful and serve three purposes in one:

- as a cave-like shelter for Tina whenever she's tired and wants a little quiet. I'll put a dogbed inside, cover the crate with an afghan and leave the door open
- to secure her for short spans of time when I need to leave her alone (with closed door, of course I'll try to keep that to a minimum, and only after she's used to the crate)
- as transport box in the car

Hm. Trying to decide. I'm open for more opinions on the crate question, and thankful for experiences with it.
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: bentgyro on March 22, 2012, 02:10:52 pm
I've always used crates for my dogs and you already know  how to use it.
It's not a prison, it's their safe place.
I raised and showed Rottweilers for some years and when they are young, they like to chew - everything!
I slept them at night in their crates and put them in  when I had to go out.
Eventually they grow out of chewing and then I could trust them loose.
When you use the crate, you can come home and greet them with happiness instead of anger because they
had just chewed up your favorite whatever.
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: Penthesilea on March 28, 2012, 02:50:56 pm
She's here, she's here! :D

May I introduce: Tina, our nwest family member.

(http://i575.photobucket.com/albums/ss192/Penthesilea09/Tina/c83c95f9.jpg)


(http://i575.photobucket.com/albums/ss192/Penthesilea09/Tina/e6f9632c.jpg)


(http://i575.photobucket.com/albums/ss192/Penthesilea09/Tina/55353b70.jpg)
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: Penthesilea on March 28, 2012, 03:00:43 pm
She did very well on the drive home. She rode in the car like a pro.
At home it was all kerfuffle for a while, but then things slowed down. Finally she was so exhausted that she fell fast asleep and didn't register anyone going in or out of the room for a good hour. Tired puppy.

She and Cäsar have already slept in the same room for a while. I'm happy about that.

Of all our rooms, the living room is the only one with carpet in it. Guess where she preferably does her business? Exactly.
But she also does it in the garden and while walking her, so we can build on that.
Never would have thought a doggie could pee that many times in one day, LOL. :laugh:

I did buy a crate, btw. Thanks for your opinions, Fran and bentgyro!
I already had her in the crate for a few minutes, first with open door, then with door closed. I distracted and rewarded her with goodies when she was in the crate.

We'll see how the first night goes....

Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: Sason on March 28, 2012, 03:15:40 pm
She's a cutie, Chrissi!

Seems everything went fine so far. That's good.

Well, with a tiny exception for the peeing, of course...  ::) ;D

Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: Jeff Wrangler on March 28, 2012, 03:39:39 pm
Congratulations, Chrissi!  :D
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: southendmd on March 28, 2012, 04:18:28 pm
Adorable!  Sounds like Tina has a tiny bladder.  :P
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: ifyoucantfixit on March 28, 2012, 05:08:48 pm



   I swear by the puppy pads.  They are a great way to introduce a puppy to a transition.  They are placed in various areas, where you want them to go for an alternative.  If you then work the placing towards the outdoors, they will kind of follow.  Then they can get used to the pads inside and out.  Finally as they get the idea, that it is for outside, you will be able to take them away all together.  They really do work.  I have trained two dogs with them.

  Congratulations on your new baby girl.   :-*
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: Fran on March 28, 2012, 05:15:33 pm
Oh my!  Tina is a beauty!  Glad to hear that she's settling in nicely.  Exactly how old is she?  I don't remember reading that.

Re the crate:  Glad you decided to go that route.  They are especially useful with puppies; keeps them out of trouble.  And if you toss a treat inside the crate, you will find that Tina will happily go inside it.  And the good thing is that you don't have to use it forever if you don't want to.

I find that crates come in handy when you want to feed a messy bone, too.  :)

As for the accident on the carpeting, I hope you have something like Nature's Miracle out there to remove the stain and the odor.

http://www.ilovenaturesmiracle.com/home/index.php

Until you figure out how long she can hold it, just keep taking her outside frequently, and she'll be house-trained in no time at all.

Please keep the photos coming, too.
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: Fran on March 28, 2012, 05:32:21 pm
Chrissi,  I just saw your earlier questions.

Yes, Ember sleeps in a crate.  Before we got Forest, she would occasionally get to sleep with me (if my husband was away) or with one of my daughters when they were home.  Now that we have Forest, they both sleep in their separate crates in the living room.  (The bedrooms are upstairs.) 

Both of them are crated when we're eating, too.

Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: CellarDweller on March 28, 2012, 06:01:29 pm
Awwwww......Tina looks like a sweeite!  Congrats Chrissi!
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: Penthesilea on March 29, 2012, 11:57:31 am
Thank you, everybody! :)

Phew - a baby is a baby is a baby. No matter whether it's human or a dog. I'm exhausted! :P
I was soooo happy to have hubby coming home in the afternoon. First chance today to catch up on the internet. :laugh:
Additionally to the puppy I had a guest all day today, which wasn't possible to postpone.

At night she did perfectly well. Put her into the crate when we went to bed. She whined for about two minutes, which is nothing, then slept through all night! :D
Now the morning was something entirely else though. While I cleaned up one mess, she already made some other nonsense without any pause in between. After sleeping all night, her mind clearly was set for action early in the morning. And I am not a morning person at all. Oh well, that's her good right after beeing such a good puppy all night. I'll survive. ;)

Additionally, I accidently scared her with the crate and baby gate (at the stairs) in the morning. Made some very loud noises and made the gate fall down (metal gate on tiles, crate slipping from my hands on the stairs, yadda, yadda - huge noise). Since then she avoids the crate and my attempts to connect good memories with the crate have not been very successful so far. We'll see how it goes this night. *crosses fingers*


No improvements in regard to become house-trained on doggie's side. But we get better in foreseeing/guessing when she has to do business, and in the afternoon most business was done outside. On her side, she still prefers the living room, if she has a chance. But it's only been one day. They all learn it and so will Tina.

We're very happy to have her. And I'm happy that puppies become grown dogs much faster than human babies. ;D ;)
She's four months old, Fran.
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: Meryl on March 29, 2012, 12:34:20 pm
Congratulations on your new baby, Chrissi!  She's adorable, though a handful.  Hope you have many happy years together.  :-*
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: Kelda on March 29, 2012, 04:07:24 pm
Awww, so cute!
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: ifyoucantfixit on March 29, 2012, 06:46:06 pm
I looked at  dog at an animal shelter yesterday. Pretty, pretty thing, she's a Spitz-mix and only 9 months old.

(http://i575.photobucket.com/albums/ss192/Penthesilea09/33cf0f7f.jpg)

(http://i575.photobucket.com/albums/ss192/Penthesilea09/c0565123.jpg)


But I'm not sure she's the right dog for us. In fact, I rather think not. :-\

She's so totally, completely freaked out. Such a scared dog, it's horrible to witness. The only thing she tries to do is hide, get away from all humans as fast and as far as possible.
On the good side, she is definitively NOT a fear-biter. She lets everybody do anything to her (when you're able to catch her and put her on a leash, that is). People can handle her, pet her, the vet can handle her, she would never bite or do anything else but try to melt into the ground.

She doesn't even take treats from humans, or eat as long as humans are close, too scared and stressed out for that.
Sadly, none of "her" people, meaning helpers who already succeded in making contact with the dog, people who she knows well and has started to trust them, were at the shelter yesterday. I would have liked to see how much better (or not) the dog is with well-known people.


Poor, poor doggie. Because she's so young and absolutely non-aggressive the shelter people think she can go into a household with children (older children, like mine are) nonetheless. They are of the firm believe that she will come around and become a well-adjusted dog.


And here I am, not able to put this dog out of my mind. She's a dog who needs a chance, who needs people with a lot of patience and some dog-sense.
And I'm sitting here, asking myself if I want to be that person....

This makes me so sad.  She has been abused, obviously.  Sad sad sad...  She might work ok with a single person.  If that person was a real patient lover of animals... :'( :'(
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: Penthesilea on March 30, 2012, 11:50:53 am
This makes me so sad.  She has been abused, obviously.  Sad sad sad...  She might work ok with a single person.  If that person was a real patient lover of animals... :'( :'(


Yes, it's sad. I thought long and hard about taking Lisa or not. She so deserves a loving home and it was a tough decision. In the end, I went with my gut feeling, which told me from beginning on that she is simply not the right dog for us, as sorry as I feel for her. :-\

I think best for her would be a quiet household, and at best with an older, self-secure dog. I'm sure that would help her, if she had an orientation in a well-adjusted dog.

Poor doggie.
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: Penthesilea on March 30, 2012, 12:00:54 pm
Tina is settling in nicely. The accidents get fewer. Big, big YAY! for that. :laugh:

Second night was again perfect. She didn't like to go into the crate, but didn't resist either. Once she was in there, she made not a single sound until the next morning. No whining, no nothing. Just sleeping. Perfect! :D

She now feels at home and secure here, which is good. The downside of it is that she doesn't want to go for walks anymore (for now). Of course we take her anyway, I don't discuss decisions with a dog, no matter how adorable she is.
Once we're out in the field, it gets better. But of course, she walks best after we've turned around and go back. :laugh:
She'll learn.


A few new pics:

Being sneaky and trying to steal a shoe (oh yes, shoes! Better than any puppy toys)

(http://i575.photobucket.com/albums/ss192/Penthesilea09/Tina/ee648791.jpg)


(http://i575.photobucket.com/albums/ss192/Penthesilea09/Tina/a92d8adb.jpg)


(http://i575.photobucket.com/albums/ss192/Penthesilea09/Tina/ca1174ef.jpg)
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: Sason on March 30, 2012, 04:07:38 pm
I don't discuss decisions with a dog,

 :laugh: :laugh: :laugh:

Good for you, Chrissi, I think that's a wise attitude!


The pics are adorable!
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: Fran on March 30, 2012, 09:09:57 pm

The pics are adorable!

They sure are.  Love the third photo!
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: Fran on March 30, 2012, 09:16:06 pm
I was feeling creative, so I spent the last couple of days making a dog bed.  It's one of those no-sew fleece ones.  It was supposed to be for Forest -- I went with an autumn leaves print so it wouldn't be too "girly" -- but Ember seems to have claimed it.  :)

(http://i198.photobucket.com/albums/aa188/ffrraann/Ember/photo-10-2.jpg)

Since the photo was taken, I undid some knots and added more stuffing, so it's a lot fluffier now.
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: Meryl on March 30, 2012, 09:44:12 pm
Wow, no wonder Ember claimed it, Fran.  That's gorgeous!  8)
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: ifyoucantfixit on March 30, 2012, 10:47:01 pm

     Those are the coolest.  No sew pillows and blankets..  Kelsey's big sister, from her sorority Delta Gamma, made her a blanket like that..

   O so cozy.

  And if we are voting on the pics...I like the second one.  She looks like she is wondering if that thing is going
to hurt her?
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: Penthesilea on March 31, 2012, 05:15:26 am
I was feeling creative, so I spent the last couple of days making a dog bed.  It's one of those no-sew fleece ones.  It was supposed to be for Forest -- I went with an autumn leaves print so it wouldn't be too "girly" -- but Ember seems to have claimed it.  :)

(http://i198.photobucket.com/albums/aa188/ffrraann/Ember/photo-10-2.jpg)

Since the photo was taken, I undid some knots and added more stuffing, so it's a lot fluffier now.


The dog bed looks gorgeous. Never heard of no sew pillows, but I just googled them and read the instructions. Great idea! The things you learn on BetterMost. ;D
Still love Ember's baby seal eyes. :)


On this side of the Atlantic, another quiet night and no accidents in the house for more than 24hrs! Hope I didn't jinx it with saying so. ;) :laugh:


---

Can you believe it? She just peed in the living room, even before I could hit the send button. Guess I did jinx it.
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: Sason on March 31, 2012, 08:47:49 am
Fran, she looks very comfy in that bed! No wonder she claimed it!  :D

Is that two little "buddies" I can see next to her?

And the colours are gorgeous with your kitchen!


Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: Sason on March 31, 2012, 08:51:47 am
I had never heard of the no sew pillows either.

Just googled it, and found a totally new technique of textile handicraft!
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: Fran on March 31, 2012, 10:40:11 am
Thanks for the compliments on my handiwork.

Tying the knots was the hardest part -- well, retying them since some of them weren't tight enough and Forest kept trying to get his nose in there to get at the stuffing.  :)

The project is based on McCall's Pattern M5410 (which I didn't buy, just used the dimensions for the medium-sized bed).

http://mccallpattern.mccall.com/m5410-products-8778.php?page_id=909&search_control=display&list=search

This tutorial helped me figure out how to do the cutting:

http://www.craftster.org/forum/index.php?topic=236744.0

My starting circles were 46 inches in diameter, and the fringe was around an inch wide by five inches long (give or take).  :)

Figuring out how to tie the knots was a bit of a challenge.  Square knots didn't work for me because I couldn't get my contrasting color to end up on top after the knots were tied.  I ended up using the "balloon knot" method used here:

[youtube=425,350]krtXzSQ8FzQ[/youtube]

I just might attempt a no-tie blanket next.  (For me, not for the dogs.)  :)  Cutting fringe on something rectangular would certainly be easier.

I think if I had to do it over, I would cut larger circles and make the fringe longer (and a bit wider) and just trim the fringe to the size I wanted when I was done tying the knots.  I would also practice tying knots on some of the leftover fleece first to get your technique down.  (Otherwise, you'll be doing a lot of untying.)   I would also do my shopping for materials over multiple days to take advantage of the "40 percent off one item" coupons at the craft store.
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: Fran on March 31, 2012, 10:50:35 am
Is that two little "buddies" I can see next to her?

Yep, they're little squirrels.  We have three of them, and they came in this little tree stump.

(http://i198.photobucket.com/albums/aa188/ffrraann/movies/41B9v1idnsL_AA300_.jpg)

And the colours are gorgeous with your kitchen!

Thanks.
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: Sason on March 31, 2012, 04:00:46 pm
Thanks for the tutorials, Fran!

Looks like a very simple and useful technique, with unending possibilities.

I want to try it, just have to think of something I need to make.  :D
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: Meryl on April 03, 2012, 01:12:57 am
My family increased by one today!  I adopted a 6-month old black kitten.  Here he is getting checked out by the vet, and then getting checked out by Vinny via the smell test.  I haven't settled on a name yet, but he's mighty cute!  :-*

(http://i66.photobucket.com/albums/h269/merylmarie/Cats/Newkitty018.jpg)

(http://i66.photobucket.com/albums/h269/merylmarie/Cats/Newkitty035.jpg)
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: Penthesilea on April 03, 2012, 03:01:54 am
Aww, how cute! :D
Look at that face in the box, the huge eyes, anxious little thing.
Congratulations on the new family member! :-*
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: ifyoucantfixit on April 03, 2012, 04:17:56 am
   Aww I love solid black cats.  I like tuxedo cats too.  So cute.  So elegant. 
Maybe Eartha, for the original catwoman.  Eartha Kitt.  If it is a girl.   I reread, and see you said a he...

---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

On this side of the Atlantic, another quiet night and no accidents in the house for more than 24hrs! Hope I didn't jinx it with saying so. 


---

Can you believe it? She just peed in the living room, even before I could hit the send button. Guess I did jinx it.
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

  That is what pets and kids are for.  Making a lier out of you...well done Tina... ;D     
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: Kelda on April 03, 2012, 04:33:29 am
Aww, he's lovely Meryl!
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: Meryl on April 03, 2012, 11:10:46 am
Thanks Chrissi, Janice and Kelda!  Things are progressing gradually.  I have the two cats shut up in the bedroom with me for now.  Lots of exorcist noises are coming out of my sweet-natured Vinny, but I trust that they're going to be fast friends in time.  ;)
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: Fran on April 03, 2012, 12:01:34 pm
Congrats, Meryl.  He's a cutie!

More photos, please.  :)
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: Katie77 on April 03, 2012, 08:35:03 pm
(http://i653.photobucket.com/albums/uu257/markus69_bucket/DCDiary.jpg)
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: Meryl on April 03, 2012, 11:02:22 pm
I love those diaries.  They've been making the rounds again on Facebook.  The cat's is too funny.  ;D
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: Kelda on April 04, 2012, 04:34:42 am
I love those diaries.  They've been making the rounds again on Facebook.  The cat's is too funny.  ;D

and pretty true!
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: Meryl on April 04, 2012, 12:08:56 pm
Congrats, Meryl.  He's a cutie!

More photos, please.  :)

As you requested, Fran!

(http://i66.photobucket.com/albums/h269/merylmarie/Cats/Tunneltakeover.jpg)

(http://i66.photobucket.com/albums/h269/merylmarie/Cats/Newboy.jpg)

(http://i66.photobucket.com/albums/h269/merylmarie/Cats/Kittyboy.jpg)
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: southendmd on April 04, 2012, 12:56:55 pm
Beyond cute, Meryl!  Have you settled on a name yet? 

Are his eyes yellow or green? 

Our last cat Jessye was black with yellow eyes.  The current black cat Rupert has very green eyes.  And 28 toes! 
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: Kelda on April 04, 2012, 01:38:11 pm
I like his little tunnel - Skimble has one like that from Ikea but he doesn't use it!
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: Penthesilea on April 04, 2012, 01:49:53 pm
(http://i66.photobucket.com/albums/h269/merylmarie/Cats/Newboy.jpg)


Aww.  :)

What Paul asked: any news on the name front?
Sometimes it takes a couple of days before inspriration strikes.

With Tina, I wasn't able to come up with something fitting right away, so we went with the name the breeder gave her (also, all three kids could agree on it). After a few days, I suddenly knew she is a Tascha (short for Natascha). But my kids aren't flexible, they insist in Tina *little sigh* So we're gonna stick with that.
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: Meryl on April 04, 2012, 01:52:02 pm
Beyond cute, Meryl!  Have you settled on a name yet? 

Are his eyes yellow or green? 

Our last cat Jessye was black with yellow eyes.  The current black cat Rupert has very green eyes.  And 28 toes! 

28 toes?  Yeehaw!

No name yet, but contenders are Dash, Pete, Swifty and...wait for it....Truman!   ;D

I'd say his eyes are gold.  8)

I like his little tunnel - Skimble has one like that from Ikea but he doesn't use it!

The tunnel is the main event around here, paired with a long clothesline with toy attached.  I recommend it to all cat owners.  8)

Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: Meryl on April 04, 2012, 01:53:48 pm

Aww.  :)

What Paul asked: any news on the name front?
Sometimes it takes a couple of days before inspriration strikes.

With Tina, I wasn't able to come up with something fitting right away, so we went with the name the breeder gave her (also, all three kids could agree on it). After a few days, I suddenly knew she is a Tascha (short for Natascha). But my kids aren't flexible, they insist in Tina *little sigh* So we're gonna stick with that.

My kitty's first name was Shimmer.  He had littermates named Glitter, Confetti, Sparkle and Sequin.  ;D
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: Penthesilea on April 04, 2012, 02:02:23 pm
My kitty's first name was Shimmer.  He had littermates named Glitter, Confetti, Sparkle and Sequin.  ;D

Love that!
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: Fran on April 04, 2012, 06:00:24 pm
My kitty's first name was Shimmer.  He had littermates named Glitter, Confetti, Sparkle and Sequin.  ;D

The bling litter, perhaps.  :)

Love the photos., especially the one with the candelabra. Thanks.
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: MaineWriter on April 04, 2012, 08:17:28 pm
My family increased by one today!  I adopted a 6-month old black kitten.  Here he is getting checked out by the vet, and then getting checked out by Vinny via the smell test.  I haven't settled on a name yet, but he's mighty cute!  :-*

(http://i66.photobucket.com/albums/h269/merylmarie/Cats/Newkitty018.jpg)

(http://i66.photobucket.com/albums/h269/merylmarie/Cats/Newkitty035.jpg)

Oh, what a cutie. He looks like our Bombay Black, Sootie. Thank you for adopting a black cat. I have learned that people often pass by the black animals because of superstitions. In our household, Sootie is black, as well as Monday (the poodle). We've had other black pets, too. I like to think they bring us luck, not the reverse!

L
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: Meryl on April 05, 2012, 12:28:06 am
Oh, what a cutie. He looks like our Bombay Black, Sootie. Thank you for adopting a black cat. I have learned that people often pass by the black animals because of superstitions. In our household, Sootie is black, as well as Monday (the poodle). We've had other black pets, too. I like to think they bring us luck, not the reverse!

L

Black is so sophisticated, as any New Yorker will attest!  I hope he brings good luck, too.   Sootie's a cute name.  8)
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: ifyoucantfixit on April 05, 2012, 10:21:40 pm


    How about the name "Black."  That sounds so sophisticated, and descriptive as well.    Again I love black cats,
about the best. 
    Maybe its my automatic bent towards the underdog.  I know how they have been mistreated in many areas, for all
of time.
    My very own grandfather, had a superstition about them.  He would not go past a road if one had crossed it.  That is so silly to me.  I set about doing everything in the world to disprove those kinds of superstitions.  Going under ladders, and such.  Stepping on cracks.  Any time I heard of a silly superstition, I would at first opportunity try to disprove them.
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: Meryl on April 09, 2012, 02:37:26 pm
Janice, thanks for your post.  I've thought about calling him Lucky, but I'm too superstitious!  ;D

It's down to Artie, Petie or Rocky.  What do y'all think?

(http://i66.photobucket.com/albums/h269/merylmarie/Cats/Week2kitty032.jpg)

Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: southendmd on April 09, 2012, 03:06:51 pm
Can't go wrong with Rocky!
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: Penthesilea on April 09, 2012, 03:14:08 pm
Janice, thanks for your post.  I've thought about calling him Lucky, but I'm too superstitious!  ;D

It's down to Artie, Petie or Rocky.  What do y'all think?

(http://i66.photobucket.com/albums/h269/merylmarie/Cats/Week2kitty032.jpg)



Gorgeous picture!

I like both Artie and Rocky, but I'd go with Artie.
I really like old-fashioned names for pets. Names that sound a little funny to our ears and nobody would name their child nowadays. Gertude, Hugo, Franz-Josef, stuff like that. When I look at the lil darlin I'd say Hugo suits him well (at least when pronounced German ;D). And Artie is in the same league IMO, thus my vote for Artie.
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: ifyoucantfixit on April 10, 2012, 03:03:00 am

  Just be sure and name him something that is easier to say.  After  "Stop that------, get down-----, or no-----."   hee hee  you are going to have to
use them in conjunction a lot...        ;D     ;D
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: Meryl on April 10, 2012, 12:43:37 pm
  Just be sure and name him something that is easier to say.  After  "Stop that------, get down-----, or no-----."   hee hee  you are going to have to
use them in conjunction a lot...        ;D     ;D

Ain't that the truth!  ;D
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: Sason on April 10, 2012, 08:07:16 pm
Janice, thanks for your post.  I've thought about calling him Lucky, but I'm too superstitious!  ;D

It's down to Artie, Petie or Rocky.  What do y'all think?

(http://i66.photobucket.com/albums/h269/merylmarie/Cats/Week2kitty032.jpg)


Congrats on the new family member, Meryl!

He's a real cutie!!

He has this very alert look on his face that I love.

Love this photo of him!
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: Kelda on April 11, 2012, 04:14:34 am
Artie suits him!
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: Penthesilea on April 14, 2012, 09:11:54 am
Update from Tina:
She's growing like weed and starting to get a collar/mane (more fur around the neck). But I think it will be more than a year till she has her full-fledged adult coat.

We're making big progress in the house-trained area. Thank god. :laugh:
It's not 100% yet, but getting there.

Two new photos. This is Tina with her first victim. The first time in 2+ weeks that she destroyed something.

(http://i575.photobucket.com/albums/ss192/Penthesilea09/Tina/6ece7ad7.jpg)


Being alert

(http://i575.photobucket.com/albums/ss192/Penthesilea09/Tina/187bf830.jpg)
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: Sason on April 14, 2012, 09:22:44 am
She's gorgeous, Chrissi!
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: Meryl on April 14, 2012, 02:44:35 pm

Artie and Vinny co-existing!  They're still not total pals, but day by day it's looking better.  Poor Vinny got a throat infection, probably from Artie, so he's now on meds twice a day.  It's always something!  :P

(http://i66.photobucket.com/albums/h269/merylmarie/Cats/Week2kitty005.jpg)
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: Sason on April 14, 2012, 02:50:24 pm
Aw....sweet photo of the two of them together, Meryl!
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: ifyoucantfixit on April 14, 2012, 04:29:08 pm


   Adorable pic of your cat sons Meryl.


    Did you pose her feet lie that Chrissi, or did she do that?  If you did it.  You should teach her to do it..
   Adorable..
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: CellarDweller on April 14, 2012, 06:46:36 pm
loving the recent pics of the pets here.  Great seeing Ember, Tina and Artie!
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: Fran on April 14, 2012, 10:52:00 pm
I'm happy to hear that Vinny and Artie are figuring out how to co-exist.

Tina is very photogenic.  She has a very intelligent look about her.

Here's a new photo of Ember and Forest.  Forest will turn seven months old on April 18th.  He's growing like a weed.  (He's weighed more than Ember for a while now.)

(http://i198.photobucket.com/albums/aa188/ffrraann/Ember/photo-10-3-1-1.jpg)

If anyone uses Photobucket, they've revamped their editing options.  Oh what fun it is enhancing less-than-ideal photos!
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: Kelda on April 15, 2012, 06:26:23 am
cute photos all!
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: Penthesilea on April 19, 2012, 10:27:44 am
Today I went to the town hall and signed off my Mäxi from taxes. I paid taxes for my dog over a year after he passed away, I didn't have the heart to declare him dead officially. Today I went because I had to register Tina.
Made it into the car before the tears came.

Rest in piece, dear friend.

(http://i575.photobucket.com/albums/ss192/Penthesilea09/5f16b29a.jpg)
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: southendmd on April 19, 2012, 12:28:25 pm
What a sweet, sad photo of your Mäxi. 

Tina looks like she's part lion.

Dog taxes??
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: Penthesilea on April 19, 2012, 01:04:13 pm
What a sweet, sad photo of your Mäxi.  

Thank you.

Quote
Tina looks like she's part lion.

Wait till she has developped her adult coat. ;D


Quote
Dog taxes??

Yes. Every dog owner has to register their dog(s) with the local authorities and pay taxes for the dog. Those taxes vary greatly. In rural areas like mine it's cheap (86 Euro per year, that's about 112$). In metropolitan areas it can be several hundred Euros.
And for dogs of so called "dangerous breeds" you pay easily 1200 Euros or more. :-\
Authorities have laws against some breeds and additionally try to discourage people from having them by the exorbitant dog taxes.

When you register your dog you get a dog tag (called tax tag) which you have to take with you all the time when you're out and about with your dog. Most people attach the tax tag to the collar/harness. Same principle as license plates for cars.


Yes, I know. That's crazy. Won't get any argument from me about that.  ::)
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: southendmd on April 19, 2012, 02:11:14 pm
Das ist wahnsinnig!
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: Sason on April 19, 2012, 05:10:47 pm
We had dog taxes in Sweden too, until 1996. (says Wiki, LOL)
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: David In Indy on April 19, 2012, 07:17:30 pm
Today I went to the town hall and signed off my Mäxi from taxes. I paid taxes for my dog over a year after he passed away, I didn't have the heart to declare him dead officially. Today I went because I had to register Tina.
Made it into the car before the tears came.

Rest in piece, dear friend.

(http://i575.photobucket.com/albums/ss192/Penthesilea09/5f16b29a.jpg)


Awwwww! He was such a CUTE dog!!!

{{{CHRISSI}}} :-* :-*
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: David In Indy on April 19, 2012, 07:18:40 pm
I'm happy to hear that Vinny and Artie are figuring out how to co-exist.

Tina is very photogenic.  She has a very intelligent look about her.

Here's a new photo of Ember and Forest.  Forest will turn seven months old on April 18th.  He's growing like a weed.  (He's weighed more than Ember for a while now.)

(http://i198.photobucket.com/albums/aa188/ffrraann/Ember/photo-10-3-1-1.jpg)

If anyone uses Photobucket, they've revamped their editing options.  Oh what fun it is enhancing less-than-ideal photos!

Just LOOK at those sweet furry faces!!!

How could anyone resist that?!!!
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: David In Indy on April 19, 2012, 07:19:28 pm
Congrats on the new family member, Meryl!

He's a real cutie!!

He has this very alert look on his face that I love.

Love this photo of him!

ROCKY!!!!!


And you're correct! He IS cute!!!
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: David In Indy on April 19, 2012, 07:23:23 pm
She's here, she's here! :D

May I introduce: Tina, our nwest family member.

(http://i575.photobucket.com/albums/ss192/Penthesilea09/Tina/c83c95f9.jpg)


(http://i575.photobucket.com/albums/ss192/Penthesilea09/Tina/e6f9632c.jpg)


(http://i575.photobucket.com/albums/ss192/Penthesilea09/Tina/55353b70.jpg)


I realize I am late chiming in.........but................

WHAT A GORGEOUS DOG!!!!!!!!

She'll need a daily brushing! I hope you have a good strong brush somewhere around there, Chrissi! Summer is coming up!

Totally cute!!!!

Awwww! I wish I could get down on the floor and hug her, kiss her and play with her!!!  :-*
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: Meryl on April 19, 2012, 07:29:48 pm
RIP dear Maxi, and long live Tina, who looks very sturdy as well as very cute!  :-*

David, I loved the name Rocky, too, but my roommate didn't, so in the end my kitty became Artie.  He's cute either way!  ;)
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: David In Indy on April 19, 2012, 07:35:09 pm
RIP dear Maxi, and long live Tina, who looks very sturdy as well as very cute!  :-*

David, I loved the name Rocky, too, but my roommate didn't, so in the end my kitty became Artie.  He's cute either way!  ;)

He sure is!!! Totally cute!!

And I like the name "Artie" too!!! Have fun with him! I'm sure you both will enjoy years and years of happiness with your new kitteh, Meryl!

He certainly has a GOOD home. No question about it! 8)
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: ifyoucantfixit on April 19, 2012, 10:33:24 pm



   Those beautiful dogs have the greatest eyes Fran.  They have such expressive faces and eyes.
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: Penthesilea on April 20, 2012, 01:54:12 am

Awwwww! He was such a CUTE dog!!!

{{{CHRISSI}}} :-* :-*


Thanks David. :-*
A new day over here. All is good now. :)
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: Penthesilea on April 20, 2012, 01:58:19 am

I realize I am late chiming in.........but................

WHAT A GORGEOUS DOG!!!!!!!!

She'll need a daily brushing! I hope you have a good strong brush somewhere around there, Chrissi! Summer is coming up!

Totally cute!!!!

Awwww! I wish I could get down on the floor and hug her, kiss her and play with her!!!  :-*


Nah, she needs a brush once a week. Even though she'll have a lot of fur, it's easy to maintain.
For now, I brush her every 2 or 3 days, so she gets used to it. Bought a new (different) brush this week. A revelation! I LOVE the new brush.

She's so cute, we're madly in love. :)
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: bentgyro on April 20, 2012, 02:47:59 pm
Tina looks very smart.......you are going to have a lot of fun with her.

And the whippets...........they look so innocent and adoring, little rascals! ;)
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: delalluvia on April 28, 2012, 12:47:54 pm
So sad for the doggies who've passed away.   :(

So happy for the arrival of new ones who bring unconditional love and affection.

Gorgeous animals.
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: Aloysius J. Gleek on May 01, 2012, 10:10:47 pm


http://www.newser.com/story/145108/blind-dog-gets-guide-dog.html


Blind Dog Gets Guide Dog
Canine friend walks golden retriever on leash
 By Matt Cantor,  Newser Staff
Posted May 1, 2012 4:44 PM CDT


(http://img2-cdn.newser.com/image/880569-0-20120501161145.jpeg) (http://www.ktul.com/video?autoStart=true&topVideoCatNo=default&clipId=7053436)


(Newser) – Tanner was a golden retriever who suffered from blindness and seizures; Blair was a homeless pup who had been shot. Now, the two are best buddies—and they're helping each other cope, the New York Daily News (http://www.nydailynews.com/news/national/blind-golden-retriever-befriends-dog-hospital-guide-article-1.1070177)  reports. The two were playing together at an Oklahoma animal hospital when "Blair all of a sudden seemed to realize that Tanner was blind and just started to help him around," a veterinarian tells Tulsa's KTUL (http://www.ktul.com/video?autoStart=true&topVideoCatNo=default&clipId=7053436).

Not only does Tanner now have a guide dog; his seizures have also gotten less frequent, and the shy Blair is becoming more friendly. "It’s the first time I’ve seen anything like this, the special relationship these two dogs have," the vet says. Shelter officials hope they can be adopted as a pair. Click through for video (http://www.ktul.com/video?autoStart=true&topVideoCatNo=default&clipId=7053436) of Blair walking Tanner on a leash.

Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: Aloysius J. Gleek on May 01, 2012, 10:14:38 pm





(http://assets.nydailynews.com/polopoly_fs/1.1070163.1335853018!/img/httpImage/image.jpg_gen/derivatives/landscape_635/image.jpg) (http://www.nydailynews.com/news/national/blind-golden-retriever-befriends-dog-hospital-guide-article-1.1070177)
Tanner, a blind Golden Retriever in Tulsa, Okla., met a compatible seeing canine named Blair at
the Woodland West Animal Hospital.





Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: Aloysius J. Gleek on May 01, 2012, 11:24:59 pm


The eyes,
The EYES!!!

                  (http://i66.photobucket.com/albums/h269/merylmarie/Cats/Newkitty035.jpg)


 :o :o :o :o :o





Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: Meryl on May 02, 2012, 01:31:15 am

Congratulations, Meryl!

(and Good Luck!!!)   :o ::) ;D

Thanks, John!  :-*  :-*  :-*
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: Aloysius J. Gleek on May 09, 2012, 12:01:56 am



By the way,
Meryl--
                  (http://i66.photobucket.com/albums/h269/merylmarie/Cats/Newkitty035.jpg)



Do these guys know what day  is coming up??  ::) ;D :laugh:
(http://s3-ak.buzzfed.com/static/enhanced/terminal01/2011/4/8/12/enhanced-buzz-28295-1302280980-7.jpg)
;D ;D ;D ;D



Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: Meryl on May 09, 2012, 12:20:37 am
I guarantee they are clueless about it, John.  The only mother they acknowledge is the red plush "snuggy" my roommate got for Christmas.  They love to "make biscuits" on it.  ;D

Here's Artie and "Mom" --

(http://i66.photobucket.com/albums/h269/merylmarie/Cats/VinnyandArtie1monthanniversary001.jpg)
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: Penthesilea on May 09, 2012, 12:48:23 am
I guarantee they are clueless about it, John.  The only mother they acknowledge is the red plush "snuggy" my roommate got for Christmas.  They love to "make biscuits" on it.  ;D

Here's Artie and "Mom" --

(http://i66.photobucket.com/albums/h269/merylmarie/Cats/VinnyandArtie1monthanniversary001.jpg)


 :o
I have the same, also in red and it is also Cäsar's favorite of all blankets/throws!
I don't know what "make biscuits on it" means, but my Cäsar loves to hump it! ::) :laugh:
He has a serious love-affair with it, and the great goddess may have mercy with everyone who covers their legs with it. Humping a leg clad in red plush is his favorite thing ever!
The little pervert ;) :laugh:
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: Penthesilea on May 09, 2012, 12:55:08 am
There. He can be nice with it. Taking a nap after humping, that is. ;D

(http://i575.photobucket.com/albums/ss192/Penthesilea09/Familie/29483eee.jpg)
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: Aloysius J. Gleek on May 09, 2012, 01:07:01 am



I have the same, also in red and it is also Cäsar's favorite of all blankets/throws!
I don't know what "make biscuits on it" means, but my Cäsar loves to hump it! ::) :laugh:




Making Biscuits!

[youtube=425,350]http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=l_Hjpa5TXes[/youtube]


[youtube=425,350]http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uGHvXAsMHkk[/youtube]


[youtube=425,350]http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qiAI0Qb9UWY[/youtube]



Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: Penthesilea on May 09, 2012, 01:27:40 am





Making Biscuits!

[youtube=425,350]http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=l_Hjpa5TXes[/youtube]


Oh yes. I should have known when Meryl referred to the blankie as "Mom".
Cäsar does that, too. I guess every cat does. It's so cute (as long as they don't do it on your lap; those sharp claws aren't fun).

Thanks for explaining, John! :)
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: ifyoucantfixit on May 09, 2012, 10:03:31 am



     "Making Biscuits," is a residual behavior left from nursing.  They do that when trying to get the milk to
come down, making it easier to nurse.  Once they are weaned many cats still retain that function, in order
to calm themselves or make themselves feel comfort as if they were with the mother.
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: Kelda on May 09, 2012, 01:37:41 pm
I hadn't heard that expression either. But since starting maternity leave Skimble has done this every morning to wake me up! No long lies for me!
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: Aloysius J. Gleek on May 14, 2012, 01:38:37 am


EVERYbody needs a little
massage now and then!
[youtube=425,350]http://www.youtube.com/watch?feature=player_embedded&v=598IdFlOXcQ[/youtube]
:D ;D :laugh:

Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: ifyoucantfixit on May 14, 2012, 12:13:12 pm

EVERYbody needs a little
massage now and then!
[youtube=425,350]http://www.youtube.com/watch?feature=player_embedded&v=598IdFlOXcQ[/youtube]
:D ;D :laugh:



   Talk about a behavior that gives pleasure to both of the ones involved.  Kitties love to make buscuits, and also love a massage. 
Talk about a win win... :D

  That meowing kitty is going to have a hard time finding a home, if he is like that all the time?  Yikes, I love animals, but I
am afraid I cound not tollerate that... 8(
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: Aloysius J. Gleek on May 18, 2012, 02:33:45 am




(http://grist.files.wordpress.com/2010/04/teacup-pig7.jpg)

OH NOOZ!! NOW THEY'RE LETTIN JUZ ANYONZE IN!!!


Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: Kelda on May 19, 2012, 01:22:00 pm
Awww, teacup pigs!
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: Aloysius J. Gleek on May 23, 2012, 09:21:17 pm

http://news.yahoo.com/blogs/sideshow/grieving-dog-refuses-leave-dead-dog-side-phoenix-142129536.html


'Grieving’ dog refused to leave
dead dog’s side

By Dylan Stableford
The Sideshow
10 hrs ago.



(http://l.yimg.com/bt/api/res/1.2/E5YeCgchqFb9wY94mo9vpg--/YXBwaWQ9eW5ld3M7cT04NTt3PTMxMA--/http://media.zenfs.com/en/blogs/thesideshow/pit-bull-refuses.jpg)


A heartbreaking photo of a male pit bull refusing to leave the side of a female pit bull that lay dead on the side of a Phoenix road is making the rounds on Facebook.
 
According to Fox's Phoenix affiliate (http://www.myfoxphoenix.com/story/18577506/2012/05/21/dog-refuses-to-leave-side-of-dead-companion), the female pit bull appeared to have been struck by a car on Friday. The male pit bull stayed by her side for more than 14 hours.
 
"The male pit bull wouldn't leave her, so a nearby business set out food and water," Fox 10 reported. "He stayed with her nuzzling her and lying nearby until the city came to remove her Saturday morning."
 
The dogs did not have owner tags when they were found.
 
"We picked up this other dog and took him to our East Valley shelter," Rodrigo Silva, an animal control official, told the station. "Right now it doesn't look like he has any behavioral or health problems."
 
Silva added that the dog is "a little withdrawn and appears to be very sad."
 
"If he continues to show these signs of withdrawal we will place him in a recovery home that can help him with his grieving," Silva told the Daily Mail (http://www.dailymail.co.uk/news/article-2148363/Grieving-pit-bull-stays-dead-mate-14-HOURS--days-later-hes-sad-adopted.html).
 
"I am so pissed about this," Karyn Aspan, who saw the photo on Facebook, wrote on her wall. "Animal control responded 14.5 hours later."
 
Aspan, who lives in Chicago, told Fox 10 she called the Phoenix mayor's office to complain, and launched a Facebook campaign to find a home for the dog.
 
"I was so outraged," she said.


Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: ifyoucantfixit on May 24, 2012, 12:07:54 am


     That is absolutely heart breaking.  To believe that they just left him there on the side of the road.  With his sister, or mom probably.  He couldn't bring himself to leave her.   Just tragic..
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: CellarDweller on June 18, 2012, 07:56:19 am
Hiya animal lovers.

BetterMost member ZK (Matthew) just got a new puppy from his partner for his birthday.

Matthew has a difficult time posting pics, so he asked me to post pics to his blog.  If you want to see Matthew and his new family member (Sasha) you can see them by clicking the link below.


The Galley Guy (http://bettermost.net/forum/index.php/topic,37548.msg633113.html#msg633113)
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: CellarDweller on June 21, 2012, 09:01:51 pm
Some new pics of Blaze, taken today.


(http://i327.photobucket.com/albums/k463/dcfmod/family%20pics/6-21-5.jpg)

Blaze usually relaxes on his pillow or blanket.  This shows how hot it is here, he's choosing the cool tile floor.  ;D
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: CellarDweller on June 21, 2012, 09:03:47 pm
Airing out his belly.


(http://i327.photobucket.com/albums/k463/dcfmod/family%20pics/6-21-3.jpg)
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: CellarDweller on June 21, 2012, 09:06:08 pm
I usually take pics with my camera, these were taken with my Blackberry, which really seems to do a number on his eyes.


(http://i327.photobucket.com/albums/k463/dcfmod/family%20pics/6-21-1.jpg)
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: CellarDweller on June 21, 2012, 09:07:33 pm
Bam!!!!!


(http://i327.photobucket.com/albums/k463/dcfmod/family%20pics/6-21-4.jpg)
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: CellarDweller on June 21, 2012, 09:09:21 pm
It even happens when he rolls over and looks up at the camera.

LOL


(http://i327.photobucket.com/albums/k463/dcfmod/family%20pics/6-21-2.jpg)
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: Meryl on June 21, 2012, 09:44:13 pm
LOL, Blaze is the personification of bright-eyed and bushy-tailed!  ;D
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: Jeff Wrangler on June 21, 2012, 10:02:12 pm
(http://i327.photobucket.com/albums/k463/dcfmod/family%20pics/6-21-1.jpg)

 :o  Devil Cat!  :o
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: Penthesilea on June 22, 2012, 12:44:02 am
Bam!!!!!


(http://i327.photobucket.com/albums/k463/dcfmod/family%20pics/6-21-4.jpg)


X-Ray Cat! Super-Kitty! Laser-Blaze!
You know, he can see y'all naked without needing special glasses for it. :laugh:

And if he wants, he can burn you to a small heap of ashes with his laser eyes. Be sure to stay on his good side!
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: Sason on June 22, 2012, 06:16:08 am
Well, he surely earned his name alright!   ;D
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: Aloysius J. Gleek on June 29, 2012, 12:10:50 pm



Pawdele
Rolling in the Deep
[youtube=425,350]http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=C8P1ysTwegc&feature[/youtube]
(I LOVE the cat in this!)

 :laugh: :laugh:

Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: Aloysius J. Gleek on June 29, 2012, 12:24:59 pm




Dog-ye
Somebody That I Used To Know
[youtube=425,350]http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fVyDYgqMQJY&feature=relmfu[/youtube]
(Once again, the cat steals the scene!)

 :laugh: :laugh:




[youtube=425,350]http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=EUQdl9sAYKg[/youtube]

They're so smart.

 :o ;)

Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: southendmd on June 30, 2012, 08:11:44 am
(https://sphotos.xx.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ash3/s480x480/8115_3104814034084_669219647_n.jpg)

This is Lily, my mom's newest adopted greyhound.  She is 10 years old, very tall, very sweet with very bad breath.  Time for those green chewy treats.  She has settled in fine.  Loves to walk around the neighborhood, and loves the fan, especially in this heat. 

Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: Sason on June 30, 2012, 01:58:43 pm
She looks like a sweet dog, Paul.

Except for her breath, that is.  ;D

I'm sure your mum and Lily will be good for each other.

Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: delalluvia on June 30, 2012, 07:06:56 pm
Pretty dog.  Have the vet check her teeth, her bad breath may be bad teeth.
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: Aloysius J. Gleek on July 18, 2012, 08:42:55 am


That's right, you heard me! It's--
EVERY Stupid Cat Video
EVER Recorded!
$9.99!
ACT NOW!!!

 ;D ;D ;D
[youtube=425,350]http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IytNBm8WA1c&feature=related[/youtube]


Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: Meryl on July 18, 2012, 11:54:51 am

That's right, you heard me! It's--
EVERY Stupid Cat Video
EVER Recorded!
$9.99!
ACT NOW!!!

 ;D ;D ;D
[youtube=425,350]http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IytNBm8WA1c&feature=related[/youtube]

Wonderful!  :laugh:



Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: ifyoucantfixit on July 19, 2012, 07:52:03 am



   Thanks for all the great videos John.  i had to quit with the obese babies one though..  The other ones were cute and funny.  The Sunami was very interesting, but the huge babies was hard to see..
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: ifyoucantfixit on July 19, 2012, 07:54:36 am
:o  Devil Cat!  :o

    That cat needs an exorcist...yikes
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: Fran on July 19, 2012, 06:55:40 pm
This is Lily, my mom's newest adopted greyhound.  She is 10 years old, very tall, very sweet with very bad breath.  Time for those green chewy treats.  She has settled in fine.  Loves to walk around the neighborhood, and loves the fan, especially in this heat. 

Yay for Lily for ending up in the best home ever!  Paul, your mom is truly one special lady for rescuing the seniors.  I wish her many happy years with lovely Lily.

And I'm looking forward to seeing many photos from you in the future.
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: Fran on July 19, 2012, 07:13:08 pm
Ember and Forest slinking about:

(http://i198.photobucket.com/albums/aa188/ffrraann/Ember/get-attachment-4.jpg)
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: Kelda on July 20, 2012, 05:19:13 pm
(https://sphotos.xx.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ash3/s480x480/8115_3104814034084_669219647_n.jpg)

This is Lily, my mom's newest adopted greyhound.  She is 10 years old, very tall, very sweet with very bad breath.  Time for those green chewy treats.  She has settled in fine.  Loves to walk around the neighborhood, and loves the fan, especially in this heat. 



aww!
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: Aloysius J. Gleek on July 27, 2012, 05:15:17 pm



(http://icanhascheezburger.wordpress.com/files/2008/11/funny-pictures-mouse-asks-if-he-can-bring-his-teddy.jpg)
.



Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: bentgyro on July 30, 2012, 03:47:13 pm
Ember and Forest slinking about:

(http://i198.photobucket.com/albums/aa188/ffrraann/Ember/get-attachment-4.jpg)
When my whippet slinks around like that, it means that he has bugged the cat until the cat has given him a big bite! :D
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: delalluvia on August 04, 2012, 01:54:42 pm
Cat video was hysterical.  Thanks for posting.  :laugh: :laugh: :laugh:


Ember and Forest slinking about:

(http://i198.photobucket.com/albums/aa188/ffrraann/Ember/get-attachment-4.jpg)

Oh, pretty pretty.   :-*
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: Aloysius J. Gleek on August 05, 2012, 07:26:50 pm
http://www.huffingtonpost.com/2012/08/01/at-sign-foreign-languages_n_1730015.html#slide=1316979



9 Animals
(and 2 Things)
Foreign Languages Call the
'@'

By Britney Fitzgerald
The Huffington Post
Updated: 08/02/2012 10:51 am



What do sleeping cats, dog heads, and strudels all have in common?

To speakers of different languages around the world, these objects all resemble "@," the little symbol that likes to populate our emails and tweets.

English is no-nonsense in its description of @. If fact, we call it like we see it -- simply the "at-sign," "at-symbol," or just "at." Pretty boring, right? Other languages are much more colorful in what they refer to it, using animals (or even pastries) to spice up their vernacular.

But that always wasn't the case. According to the Museum of Modern Art, linguists believe @ derived from "a unique pen stroke" of the Latin preposition "ad" (meaning "at," "to," or "toward") in the sixth or seventh century -- well before the Internet age. By 1885, the at-sign was inserted onto typewriters and later called the "commercial 'a'" by the American Dictionary of Printing and Bookmaking.

It wasn't until the 1970s that the symbol would get its big break, when electrical engineer Ray Tomlinson inserted the little-used sign into email addresses.

Since then, the @ has taken on several different uses online, becoming a staple of our email addresses and handles on social networking sites. According to CNN, one Chinese couple even tried to name their child @ in 2007, pronouncing it "ai ta."

Take a look at the slideshow below to see a few different translations for the at-sign. If you could rename this curly character, what creative description would you associate it with? Let us know in the comments section below, or tweet your suggestions to (!!) @HuffPostTech (http://@HuffPostTech).



@


Danish speakers refer to the @ as an "elephant's trunk."  

(http://i.huffpost.com/gadgets/slideshows/242212/slide_242212_1316979_free.jpg)


@

German, Polish, Bulgarian and Indonesian all call @ a "monkey's tail" or "little monkey."

(http://i.huffpost.com/gadgets/slideshows/242212/slide_242212_1315971_free.jpg)


@

Greek speakers have come to call @ the word "papaki," meaning little duck.  

(http://i.huffpost.com/gadgets/slideshows/242212/slide_242212_1315982_free.jpg)


@

In Hebrew, the @ is called a "strudel." (Yum!)

(http://i.huffpost.com/gadgets/slideshows/242212/slide_242212_1316245_free.jpg)



@

Italians call @ a "chiocciola", meaning "snail." Another Romance language, French, also use this spirally
mollusk in their translation, or say "at" like in English.

(http://i.huffpost.com/gadgets/slideshows/242212/slide_242212_1316431_free.jpg)


@

Chinese speakers use the word "mouse" for the @.

(http://i.huffpost.com/gadgets/slideshows/242212/slide_242212_1316447_free.jpg)


@

Kazakh speakers refer to @ as a "moon's ear."

(http://i.huffpost.com/gadgets/slideshows/242212/slide_242212_1316751_free.jpg)


@

The Russian language uses the word "dog" for the
at-sign. Kazakh speakers also refer to @ occasionally
as the "dog's face."

(http://i.huffpost.com/gadgets/slideshows/242212/slide_242212_1315793_free.jpg)


@

The word "miukumauka" or "the sign of the meow" is how Finnish speakers describe @,
which they believe looks like a sleeping cat. Finns also might call the symbol a
"kissanhnta" or "cat's tail."

(http://i.huffpost.com/gadgets/slideshows/242212/slide_242212_1316455_free.jpg)


@

In Korean, @ is called "golbangi," which translates into a word similar to "sea snail."

(http://i.huffpost.com/gadgets/slideshows/242212/slide_242212_1316778_free.jpg)


@

The @ for Hungarian speakers means "worm" or "maggot."

(http://i.huffpost.com/gadgets/slideshows/242212/slide_242212_1316904_free.jpg)


Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: Aloysius J. Gleek on August 05, 2012, 07:50:31 pm

http://www.katu.com/news/weird/Stranded-walrus-calf-rescued-from-Alaska-lagoon-164506296.html?tab=video&c=y


Stranded walrus calf
rescued from Alaska lagoon


By Associated Press
Last Updated: Jul 31, 2012 at 4:01 PM PDT


(http://media.katu.com/images/506*660/1120731_Orphaned_Walrus_Calves_3.jpg)


(http://media.katu.com/images/1120731_Orphaned_Walrus_Calves_2.jpg)


(http://media.katu.com/images/1120731_Walrus_Calf_6.jpg)


(http://media.katu.com/images/1120731_Walrus_Calf_4.jpg)


(http://media.katu.com/images/1120731_Walrus_Calf_5.jpg)


SEWARD, Alaska (AP) - A Pacific walrus calf is under care at a marine rehabilitation center after it was found stranded near Barrow, Alaska.
 
The Alaska SeaLife Center in Seward says in a release that the male calf is estimated to be 4 to 6 weeks old.
 
Officials report a large group of walrus floated on sea ice past Barrow on July 17, and believe this calf became separated from them. Barrow fishermen saw the calf in a lagoon.
 
Staff members at the Alaska SeaLife Center say the calf appears to be in good health.
 
It's the first walrus calf at the center since 2007. Four calves were cared for at the center between 2003 and 2007.


Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: Kelda on August 06, 2012, 07:59:32 am
Those walrus pics are so cute!
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: Meryl on August 06, 2012, 01:12:34 pm
Walruses are the greatest.  8)

[youtube=425,350]http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wVWu_WN15cw[/youtube]
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: delalluvia on August 06, 2012, 07:26:06 pm
Adorable walrus pup.  Is it aggressive?  It appears very gentle.
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: Aloysius J. Gleek on August 09, 2012, 07:41:31 pm




(http://i.huffpost.com/gen/721062/original.jpg) (http://www.huffingtonpost.com/2012/08/08/man-dog-lake-superior-photo-_n_1755609.html)


Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: delalluvia on August 09, 2012, 07:44:08 pm
The story is so touching.  Elderly dog with arthritis falling asleep when his aches are eased by the warm lake water.





(http://i.huffpost.com/gen/721062/original.jpg) (http://www.huffingtonpost.com/2012/08/08/man-dog-lake-superior-photo-_n_1755609.html)



Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: ifyoucantfixit on August 10, 2012, 11:01:20 am



                                                  Adorable little Corgi having the time of his life...


                     http://www.godvine.com/Happy-Corgi-Has-the-Time-of-His-Life-at-the-Waterpark-1891.html?utm_source=newsletter&utm_medium=email&utm_campaign=8-10-2012
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: Aloysius J. Gleek on August 15, 2012, 08:25:34 am



[youtube=425,350]http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uyWmvoYkDVY&feature[/youtube]
Published on Aug 10, 2012 by AssociatedPress



Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: Aloysius J. Gleek on August 15, 2012, 07:52:27 pm


[youtube=425,350]http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=b_mVb-G1v1I&feature[/youtube]
Published on Aug 13, 2012 by krmrmlp
::) :laugh:




Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: Meryl on August 15, 2012, 08:29:07 pm

[youtube=425,350]http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=b_mVb-G1v1I&feature[/youtube]
Published on Aug 13, 2012 by krmrmlp
::) :laugh:

Hmmm, he's filming me, so obviously I must perform.  There.  Hope it was good for you.  Hey, ho! (yawn)

 :laugh:
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: Jeff Wrangler on August 15, 2012, 08:37:19 pm
Those walrus pics are so cute!

He's adorable!  :D

I wonder whose telephone number is scrawled on the inside of that animal carrier in the first pic?  ???

"The time has come, the Walrus said, to speak of many things. of shoes and ships and sealing wax, of cabbages and kings."
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: Aloysius J. Gleek on August 15, 2012, 08:44:24 pm



He's adorable!  :D

I wonder whose telephone number is scrawled on the inside of that animal carrier in the first pic?  ???

"The time has come, the Walrus said, to speak of many things. of shoes and ships and sealing wax, of cabbages and kings."


(http://25.media.tumblr.com/tumblr_m540c9rMuk1r823eto1_500.gif)
:laugh: :laugh:


Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: tforster on August 15, 2012, 10:41:45 pm
Our sweet girl, Cheyenne.
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: Jeff Wrangler on August 16, 2012, 03:45:43 pm
Our sweet girl, Cheyenne.

She looks like a very happy doggie.  :D
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: Aloysius J. Gleek on August 17, 2012, 08:24:57 am


Click and scroll for video
(http://sphotos-a.xx.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ash3/c67.0.403.403/p403x403/547091_338806896205501_127223004_n.jpg)

(http://a.abcnews.go.com/images/News/ht_missy_dog_rescue_tk_120816_wmain.jpg)
Missy, a 4-year-old German Shepherd stranded in the wild, was left for dead and saved by a group
of eight hikers.
(http://www.radaronline.com/exclusives/2012/08/custody-battle-rescued-dog-missy-abandoned-mountain)


Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: Meryl on August 17, 2012, 11:25:03 am
Poor dog!  I hope she doesn't go back to the original owner.  He doesn't deserve to keep her after giving up on her so readily.
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: Fran on August 18, 2012, 12:06:05 am
Poor dog!  I hope she doesn't go back to the original owner.  He doesn't deserve to keep her after giving up on her so readily.

I'm in complete agreement with you here, Meryl.  Some people....
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: delalluvia on August 19, 2012, 03:34:40 pm
Poor dog!  I hope she doesn't go back to the original owner.  He doesn't deserve to keep her after giving up on her so readily.

I hope he doesn't either.  I can understand why he left the dog, I don't understand why he didn't go back for him.

If he left him for dead, that's it.  He abandoned his dog.

Someone else picked him up and risked their lives for him and took him into a vet for care, so THOSE people should now be his new owner. 
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: CellarDweller on August 25, 2012, 09:56:08 pm
Blaze went to the vet not long ago for his check-up, nail clipping, and had all his fur trimmed.

It took most of the afternoon for the tranquilizer to wear off, he was rather wobbly.  lol
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: delalluvia on August 26, 2012, 02:35:04 pm
Blaze went to the vet not long ago for his check-up, nail clipping, and had all his fur trimmed.

It took most of the afternoon for the tranquilizer to wear off, he was rather wobbly.  lol

Wow, they tranquilize Blaze?  Maybe they should have done it to my Kenobi.  I took both cats in for their yearly checkup back in June to get their shots and asked the vet to trim their claws while I was there.

Kabuki was very passive and everything went without issue.  Kenobi fought the claw trimming like a demon.  By the end of it, the vet was holding her upside down and gently shaking her to distract her, while she screamed and the vet assistant trimmed her claws.

By the time I had them both in the carrier, taking them home, Kenobi was incandescently enraged.  She was doing the cat equivalent of turning red she was so angry.  She was panting, her nose and the pads on her feet were bright red.  I called the vet, alarmed, but they said she was just mad and if she didn't calm down in a few to call them back.  She did, thankfully, but was grumpy the rest of the day. 

 :laugh:
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: CellarDweller on August 26, 2012, 04:10:12 pm
Wow, they tranquilize Blaze?  Maybe they should have done it to my Kenobi.  I took both cats in for their yearly checkup back in June to get their shots and asked the vet to trim their claws while I was there.

Blaze is a large cat, and he hates the vet.  They have to tranquilize him to groom him.  LOL

My parents used to have "pet insurance" on him, and when the vet bill was submitted to them, they paid most of it, but when we got the statement back with what they covered, the tranquilizer was circled and the bill had this note on it:

"We don't cover behavioral problems."

 :laugh: :laugh: :laugh:
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: Kelda on August 27, 2012, 09:04:38 am
Blaze is a large cat, and he hates the vet.  They have to tranquilize him to groom him.  LOL

My parents used to have "pet insurance" on him, and when the vet bill was submitted to them, they paid most of it, but when we got the statement back with what they covered, the tranquilizer was circled and the bill had this note on it:

"We don't cover behavioral problems."

 :laugh: :laugh: :laugh:

 :laugh: :laugh: :laugh:
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: Aloysius J. Gleek on August 29, 2012, 07:54:24 am


Bait and Switch
(https://i.chzbgr.com/completestore/12/8/20/3xFZXynNIkWGfSPYCpsFTA2.gif)
;D


Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: David In Indy on September 02, 2012, 12:21:41 am

Bait and Switch
(https://i.chzbgr.com/completestore/12/8/20/3xFZXynNIkWGfSPYCpsFTA2.gif)
;D




:laugh: :laugh: :laugh:

TOO CUTE!!!!!


I saw a cute one the other day! A NINJA KITTY!!!

Keep your eye on the stuffed animal!


[youtube=425,350]http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pM4A-Yi4jkE[/youtube]

Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: Aloysius J. Gleek on September 03, 2012, 08:49:36 pm


Ack!!!!!
[youtube=425,350]http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ab3kBkmHnHY&feature[/youtube]
(You have been warned!!!)

 ::) ::)


Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: Aloysius J. Gleek on September 12, 2012, 08:08:22 am





Barkley Does Not
Appreciate His New Boots
[youtube=425,350]http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KG8njOXLza8&feature[/youtube]



Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: Aloysius J. Gleek on September 12, 2012, 10:59:38 pm


Best Ever!
BEST EVER!!

 :D :D :D
[youtube=425,350]http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WI9W_VdV1l0&feature[/youtube]



Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: Penthesilea on September 13, 2012, 01:49:27 am
What a lucky cat Rufus is! :D
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: Kelda on September 14, 2012, 05:26:23 pm

Best Ever!
BEST EVER!!

 :D :D :D
[youtube=425,350]http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WI9W_VdV1l0&feature[/youtube]





very clever!
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: Front-Ranger on September 18, 2012, 06:45:53 pm
Seen during my walks this week:

(http://i1081.photobucket.com/albums/j341/LeeRecca/P1120017.jpg)
(http://i1081.photobucket.com/albums/j341/LeeRecca/P1120016.jpg)
(http://i1081.photobucket.com/albums/j341/LeeRecca/geeseonlawn.jpg)
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: bentgyro on September 20, 2012, 01:16:12 am
So beautliful!
Lucky you!
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: Marge_Innavera on September 22, 2012, 03:00:31 pm
Images from a Buzzfeed page that specializes in "awwwwwwwwww" pictures:

(http://i135.photobucket.com/albums/q135/talkstocoyotes/enhanced-buzz-5863-1346959422-16_zpsa0f1ef67.jpg)


(http://i135.photobucket.com/albums/q135/talkstocoyotes/enhanced-buzz-7507-1347035516-10_zps660aff1c.jpg)


(http://i135.photobucket.com/albums/q135/talkstocoyotes/enhanced-buzz-13917-1347380071-14_zpsa0eaff5a.jpg)


the rest at http://www.buzzfeed.com/expresident/can-you-get-through-this-post-without-squealing
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: Aloysius J. Gleek on September 26, 2012, 08:42:21 am



Click!
(http://i.huffpost.com/gen/786475/thumbs/s-MITTENS-DOG-NURSES-KITTEN-large.jpg) (http://www.huffingtonpost.com/2012/09/25/mittens-pekingese-dog-adopts-nurses-orphaned-kitten_n_1911128.html)



Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: delalluvia on September 26, 2012, 07:43:35 pm
Donations poured in after the below pic was shown.

Dog is much better now.  And the owner has opened up a fund to help other elderly dogs with owners that can't afford to care for their ills.  :)

http://news.yahoo.com/blogs/sideshow/dog-photo-schoep-arthritic-lake-180953849.html




(http://i.huffpost.com/gen/721062/original.jpg) (http://www.huffingtonpost.com/2012/08/08/man-dog-lake-superior-photo-_n_1755609.html)



Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: Meryl on October 04, 2012, 01:00:44 pm
Brokies who have been chez Meryl know my little Vinny.  Here's a pic Sophia took earlier this year.

(http://i66.photobucket.com/albums/h269/merylmarie/Cats/Vinnylegscrossedlighter.jpg)

My roomie, Ann Marie, is taking a computer graphics class and was assigned the project of doing a pet portrait using only printer fonts.  Here's the fab result.  She's got him to a T, right?  ;D

(http://i66.photobucket.com/albums/h269/merylmarie/Cats/VinnyportraitAnnMarie.jpg)
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: ifyoucantfixit on October 04, 2012, 02:11:42 pm
Donations poured in after the below pic was shown.

Dog is much better now.  And the owner has opened up a fund to help other elderly dogs with owners that can't afford to care for their ills.  :)

http://news.yahoo.com/blogs/sideshow/dog-photo-schoep-arthritic-lake-180953849.html


       I truly love that picture, the video, and the love behind it.  I am glad you reminded me over again.
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: Aloysius J. Gleek on October 04, 2012, 02:53:13 pm
Brokies who have been chez Meryl know my little Vinny.  Here's a pic Sophia took earlier this year.

(http://i66.photobucket.com/albums/h269/merylmarie/Cats/Vinnylegscrossedlighter.jpg)

My roomie, Ann Marie, is taking a computer graphics class and was assigned the project of doing a pet portrait using only printer fonts.  Here's the fab result.  She's got him to a T, right?  ;D

(http://i66.photobucket.com/albums/h269/merylmarie/Cats/VinnyportraitAnnMarie.jpg)





I remembered that Vinnie wore spats, put I completely forgot the silk opera scarf!

 :D

(good job, Ann Marie!)

 ;)




Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: Kelda on October 06, 2012, 05:38:45 pm
amazing Meryl!
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: Meryl on October 07, 2012, 08:13:15 pm
Tonight is a very sad night for our family.  My brother Skip and his wife Kay will be saying goodbye to their bichons tomorrow, Addie and Grits.  They're 17 and 15, both suffering from old age and painful conditions that have reached the crisis point.  If you get a chance, send some love and hugs to them in Ohio.  :'(

(http://i66.photobucket.com/albums/h269/merylmarie/Family/Skipandthegirls2008.jpg)
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: Front-Ranger on October 07, 2012, 08:45:42 pm
What a heartbreaker. I am sending lots of prayers!
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: Sason on October 08, 2012, 02:33:53 pm
Sympathy and good thoughts for you all, Meryl!
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: Penthesilea on October 09, 2012, 03:12:47 am
Both dogs on one day? Heartbreaking indeed. :(
My sympathies to your brother and family.
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: delalluvia on October 21, 2012, 12:16:08 am
Tonight is a very sad night for our family.  My brother Skip and his wife Kay will be saying goodbye to their bichons tomorrow, Addie and Grits.  They're 17 and 15, both suffering from old age and painful conditions that have reached the crisis point.  If you get a chance, send some love and hugs to them in Ohio.  :'(

(http://i66.photobucket.com/albums/h269/merylmarie/Family/Skipandthegirls2008.jpg)
:'(

RIP, I'm sure they had long and good doggy lives.
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: Meryl on October 21, 2012, 01:16:13 am
Thanks, del, they did.  Skip and his wife smothered them with affection.  They were sweet girls.  :-*
Title: Animals In Our Lives: Horses in WW1
Post by: Marge_Innavera on October 26, 2012, 08:42:09 am
The exchange about the decreased use of "horses and bayonets" in the last Presidential debate, and the mention of the 19-teens, inspired me to take a look at the last large-scale use of horses in warfare.  There are plenty of articles and historical videos at present, due to the release this year of the film version of War Horse.

About 8 million horses were used in World War I; not many survived after the war.  Most that were not killed during the conflict were too traumatized to function as work or riding horses, and the majority were shot, abandoned (and mostly starved) or were sent to processing plants.  


"World War I, in which 10 million soldiers died, also resulted in the deaths of 8 million military horses.

"By the outbreak of World War I, advances in military technology meant that conditions on the front were often more dangerous for horses than for humans. In just one day during the 1916 Battle of Verdun in France, for instance, some 7,000 horses were killed, including nearly 100 animals that died after being struck by a French naval gun blast. Horses were also more susceptible to the elements, and thousands succumbed to exhaustion, disease and poison gas attacks. Many more might have been lost without the efforts of units such as Britain’s Royal Army Veterinary Corps, which treated more than 2.5 million injured horses during World War I. Of these patients, 75 percent were successfully returned to service."

http://www.history.com/news/war-animals-from-horses-to-glowworms-7-incredible-facts

"The war horses of the Western Front in fact offer a powerful metaphor for the war's mass human slaughter, as the old tactics of frontal cavalry and infantry assaults were crushed by the new technology of huge artillery, machine guns, tear gas, and barbed wire. . . .  the customary battleground risks to horses of disease or exhaustion or inadequate food were compounded by the new conditions of the Great War: tear gas, shell shock, drowning in craters or direct hits from mammoth artillery shells, machine gun fire or, increasingly, air attack. Knowing how valuable horses were, the armies often targeted them.

"And the death toll was fearsome. During the war, the British had approximately one million horses and mules on the Western Front. Approximately half a million died and tens of thousands were injured. (Some estimates are higher.) Those horses that survived were sold on the continent after the war (often for food). Only a fraction of the horses under arms returned to Britain (the program notes at the Lincoln Center production of the play [ War Horse ] put the number at 62,000). "

http://www.theatlantic.com/entertainment/archive/2011/12/the-real-story-of-war-horses-on-the-western-front/250183/#
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: Marge_Innavera on October 26, 2012, 08:45:19 am

Videos:

[youtube=425,350]http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tWDCO9myKB4[/youtube]
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: Marge_Innavera on October 26, 2012, 08:46:17 am

This is the first of a 4-part video documentary:

[youtube=425,350]http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PKFRhFQkstw[/youtube]
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: Fran on October 30, 2012, 09:16:51 pm
Forest and Ember would like to wish everyone at Bettermost a Happy Halloween:

(http://i198.photobucket.com/albums/aa188/ffrraann/Ember/Picture4-1-2.jpg)

Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: Sason on November 01, 2012, 04:45:10 pm
Aww....LOL!
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: Kelda on November 05, 2012, 05:18:35 pm
love it Fran!
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: Marge_Innavera on November 10, 2012, 09:20:22 am
Forest and Ember would like to wish everyone at Bettermost a Happy Halloween:

(http://i198.photobucket.com/albums/aa188/ffrraann/Ember/Picture4-1-2.jpg)



Adorable hats!  Are they whippets or Italian greyhounds?  Have owned both as well as regular-sized greyhounds, and they're such sweet dogs.
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: Marge_Innavera on November 10, 2012, 09:25:56 am
The story below isn't about anyone I know personally; it's from the JoeMyGod blog.   It made me think of the years my husband spent working in animal shelters and all the abused, abandoned or traumatized dogs we either adopted or fostered; one was thrown into a dumpster when he was 5 weeks old and we had him until he passed on at age 16.

People who work in shelters often get burned out quickly because they see cases like this every single day; "they just keep coming", as one exhausted worker told me once.  In all the talk about "sin" in our churches and about ethics in secular life, the way that the animals whom we've made dependent on us are often treated doesn't come up nearly as often as it should.  This dog was in a horrible situation and was one of the lucky ones.



Big Teddy is my Husky/Sheppard mix - huge dog.

He's one of the most beautiful dogs I've ever seen...smart too.

He belonged to my neighbors across the street.  They had him tied to a small tree - too small to give shade- with a logging chain. No collar, the chain was wrapped around his neck and padlocked in place. He couldn't move but about 3 ft around the tree, and the grass was ripped out where that heavy chain drug. They would leave him out there in the boiling hot southern sun and almost never feed or water him - and I saw him turning into a skeleton and I thought to myself "You can keep calling animal control, but they're never going to stop this...he's dying, today is the day you have to DO something." and the next thing I knew, I found myself storming across the street.

I didn't know Teddy, and he looks ferocious, so I was plenty scared...but he was so weak at that point... and I think he knew I was there to help him.

Anyway, I started trying to roll the chain over his head. I know it hurt him going over his ears and eyes...but I did my best to be gentle...and I finally managed to wrestle it off,
Then...he was so big...and so weak...and I didn't know how to get him to come with me...so..I picked him up and slung him over my shoulder and started to carry him off...and he just let me, he didn't struggle at all...

Lord, we'd have both been on the ground if he had because he was, even then, pretty heavy for me.

About the time I started down the hill with him, the man from over there came outside and started yelling about how that was his dog...and so I put Teddy down and turned around and said "I'm taking him home with me. So, either you give me the dog, or I call the police and report you for animal abuse." which I'd already done, but the animal control out here is completely worthless...and that asshole had no idea how many times I'd called them already.

Teddy was in pitiful shape..and I was counting on him not wanting to get into trouble...so...since he said nothing else... I went ahead and brought Teddy home with me, gave him a bath, fed him up, and then we saved all of our money for the next 7 or 8 months to buy odd used fence pieces..till we had enough to build him almost an acre enclosure against the back and side fences of our neighbors....

He'd never known life off the chain, and even we had him on a runner at first...anyhow...that fence looks like shit, but he now runs and plays... and I have him up to around 75/80lbs. This is his second year with us. I wish I'd acted sooner, I know I should have, but I couldn't find the balls to just storm over and TAKE the dog...until that day....

Smartest dog ever...sweetest, most loving boy...picks up tricks really fast...and he loves birds. All kinds.  His bff is a chicken, or was.   (She had a trajesty.)

I wish he'd sleep in the house with me, but he doesn't like it in here...gets too hot for him, I think...anyway, that's Big Teddy.....
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: southendmd on December 19, 2012, 08:34:53 pm
(https://i.chzbgr.com/maxW500/6874454784/h6D9A16F0/)

Sharing is caring.
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: southendmd on December 19, 2012, 08:39:12 pm
(https://i.chzbgr.com/maxW500/6865976832/h983ECF71/)
that snow barely stuck an hour.
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: southendmd on December 19, 2012, 08:44:05 pm
(https://i.chzbgr.com/maxW500/6836787456/h70027FEF/)
Pretty good with a can opener.
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: southendmd on December 19, 2012, 09:01:16 pm
(https://i.chzbgr.com/maxW500/6815213568/h69BDFEDB/)
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: Front-Ranger on December 20, 2012, 06:24:13 pm
Love the ping pong kitty! Thanks, Paul!
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: Penthesilea on December 21, 2012, 03:15:31 am
Love the Aussie (I think it's an Aussie) in the snow! They're all neat, thanks for sharing, Paul.
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: Penthesilea on December 21, 2012, 04:58:13 am
I haven't posted any pics if Tina and Cäsar in a while. She was one year last month. Puperty has hit about 5 or 6 weeks ago. Suddenly everything she had learned seemed forgotten, lol. I had to take her on the retracable leash and only let her off the leash for training, but not for leasurely strolling. When she was off the leash, she had to stay close to and focused on me. Seems the work pays off (*knock on wood*), the last two days I let her run and everything was fine. :)

Here are some pics for the end of the year:


(http://i575.photobucket.com/albums/ss192/Penthesilea09/Tina/IMG_6010-002_zpsea87db69.jpg)
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: Penthesilea on December 21, 2012, 04:59:53 am
(http://i575.photobucket.com/albums/ss192/Penthesilea09/Tina/IMG_6020_zps1f5fd550.jpg)


(http://i575.photobucket.com/albums/ss192/Penthesilea09/Tina/IMG_6037_zps5077f5ba.jpg)


(http://i575.photobucket.com/albums/ss192/Penthesilea09/Tina/CIMG9217_zpsf8bd674b.jpg)
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: Penthesilea on December 21, 2012, 05:02:11 am

The kids having fun with Tina
(http://i575.photobucket.com/albums/ss192/Penthesilea09/Tina/IMG_5903_zps4ca8331e.jpg)
Yoda? ;)

(http://i575.photobucket.com/albums/ss192/Penthesilea09/Tina/IMG_5909_zpsfac32a8f.jpg)


(http://i575.photobucket.com/albums/ss192/Penthesilea09/Tina/IMG_5823-001_zpse7e6e36e.jpg)
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: Penthesilea on December 21, 2012, 05:04:31 am
(http://i575.photobucket.com/albums/ss192/Penthesilea09/Tina/CIMG9452_zpsf0206809.jpg)


(http://i575.photobucket.com/albums/ss192/Penthesilea09/Tina/CIMG9432_zps18dc7c9f.jpg)
Sometimes I wonder where that beeping noise comes from, only to find Cäsar on the keyboard, pressing some button. :laugh:
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: Penthesilea on December 21, 2012, 05:06:51 am


(http://i575.photobucket.com/albums/ss192/Penthesilea09/Tina/Weih02_zps6b5a42a0.jpg)
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: Sason on December 21, 2012, 06:34:42 pm
(https://i.chzbgr.com/maxW500/6815213568/h69BDFEDB/)

This is too cute and funny!   :D
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: Sason on December 21, 2012, 06:43:20 pm
(http://i575.photobucket.com/albums/ss192/Penthesilea09/Tina/CIMG9452_zpsf0206809.jpg)
LOL!

This is the epitome of total relaxation!!  :laugh:





Reminds me of this:


(https://bobbiblogger.files.wordpress.com/2012/03/cat21.jpg)
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: Front-Ranger on December 21, 2012, 06:46:43 pm
(http://i575.photobucket.com/albums/ss192/Penthesilea09/Tina/IMG_6020_zps1f5fd550.jpg)


(http://i575.photobucket.com/albums/ss192/Penthesilea09/Tina/IMG_6037_zps5077f5ba.jpg)


(http://i575.photobucket.com/albums/ss192/Penthesilea09/Tina/CIMG9217_zpsf8bd674b.jpg)
These are all just adorable! Thanks for sharing!
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: Fran on December 21, 2012, 10:08:15 pm
Great photos, Chrissi.  I especially like the ones of Tina in the snow.  :)
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: delalluvia on December 22, 2012, 03:10:00 pm
Thanks for all the pictures and rescue stories guys.  :)   Considering the sad news of the last week, it's a bright spot of cheer.
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: Penthesilea on December 22, 2012, 03:12:52 pm
Thank you Sonja, Lee, Fran and Del! :)
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: Kelda on December 22, 2012, 04:15:20 pm
love the gifs paul and the new pics Chrissi!
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: Meryl on December 24, 2012, 08:01:44 pm

Waiting for Santa

(http://i66.photobucket.com/albums/h269/merylmarie/Cats/VinArtwindowDec62012.jpg)

(http://i66.photobucket.com/albums/h269/merylmarie/Cats/MerryChristmaswcats.jpg)
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: Aloysius J. Gleek on December 25, 2012, 10:52:14 am
Waiting for Santa

(http://i66.photobucket.com/albums/h269/merylmarie/Cats/VinArtwindowDec62012.jpg)

(http://i66.photobucket.com/albums/h269/merylmarie/Cats/MerryChristmaswcats.jpg)


 :laugh: :laugh: :laugh:
(http://www.mnartists.org/uploads/users/user_2155/94da9d68d7f90a5f5053dc86f44558f3/94da9d68d7f90a5f5053dc86f44558f3.jpg)




(http://pizzacomedy.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/11/ct-dshng.jpg)
;D ;D ;D


Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: Meryl on December 25, 2012, 11:47:42 am
 :laugh:  :laugh:  :laugh:

I love Grumpy Cat!  ;D
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: delalluvia on December 25, 2012, 02:50:34 pm
 :laugh: :laugh:

Q:  Why are cats smarter than dogs? 

A:  You're not going to see a bunch of cats pulling a sleigh through the snow.

 :laugh:
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: Aloysius J. Gleek on January 11, 2013, 10:05:06 pm


[youtube=425,350]http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fDKDC_IUnOA&feature[/youtube]
Published on Dec 26, 2012 by Tim Doucette
:) :)
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: Kelda on January 14, 2013, 06:32:58 pm

[youtube=425,350]http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fDKDC_IUnOA&feature[/youtube]
Published on Dec 26, 2012 by Tim Doucette
:) :)



So cute!
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: Penthesilea on January 15, 2013, 01:36:56 am
Aw, that was cute. Tina also approves. ;) She was in the room with me when I watched and started looking for the doggie she could hear. :laugh:
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: Fran on January 15, 2013, 11:41:50 pm
Here's Forest playing dress-up on the first anniversary of his Gotcha Day:

(http://i198.photobucket.com/albums/aa188/ffrraann/Ember/IMG_0730.jpg)  (http://i198.photobucket.com/albums/aa188/ffrraann/Ember/IMG_0722.jpg)

He's turning into quite the little sweetheart.  Can't believe it's been a year already....

Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: Penthesilea on January 16, 2013, 01:55:10 am
Here's Forest playing dress-up on the first anniversary of his Gotcha Day:

(http://i198.photobucket.com/albums/aa188/ffrraann/Ember/IMG_0730.jpg)  (http://i198.photobucket.com/albums/aa188/ffrraann/Ember/IMG_0722.jpg)

He's turning into quite the little sweetheart.  Can't believe it's been a year already....




Lookin' sharp there, Forest!
Happy Anniversary! :)
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: southendmd on January 16, 2013, 09:15:07 am
Sweet!  Happy Gotcha Anniversary, Fran and Forest!
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: CellarDweller on January 16, 2013, 09:19:19 am
LOL

He looks so cute!

Happy Gotcha Anniversary!
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: Fran on January 18, 2013, 12:56:51 am
On Thursday we celebrated the third anniversary of yet another "Gotcha Day," the day Ember joined our family.  Super-sweet Ember is my favorite subject to photograph now that my daughters are grown.  Here she is, lovely as ever, chilling with Forest:

(http://i198.photobucket.com/albums/aa188/ffrraann/IMG_0787_2.jpg)
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: Front-Ranger on January 18, 2013, 01:07:57 am
Ember is so lovely!
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: Penthesilea on January 18, 2013, 01:31:20 am
Happy anniversary, Ember! :)
Those eyes! They still make her look like a baby seal.
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: Kelda on January 19, 2013, 09:01:49 am
They look very comfy there!
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: delalluvia on January 19, 2013, 12:50:39 pm
Glad I checked in to get my Ember and Forest fix.  Adorable and just beautiful.   :)  :-*
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: Fran on January 19, 2013, 01:30:40 pm
Thanks, everyone, for the nice comments and good wishes re the Gotcha Days.

Glad I checked in to get my Ember and Forest fix.  Adorable and just beautiful.   :)  :-*

 I'm happy to oblige.  :)

Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: Sason on January 25, 2013, 04:14:10 pm
Here's Forest playing dress-up on the first anniversary of his Gotcha Day:

(http://i198.photobucket.com/albums/aa188/ffrraann/Ember/IMG_0730.jpg)  (http://i198.photobucket.com/albums/aa188/ffrraann/Ember/IMG_0722.jpg)

He's turning into quite the little sweetheart.  Can't believe it's been a year already....



Cute!

Happy gotcha day, Fran and Forest!
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: Sason on January 25, 2013, 04:17:28 pm
On Thursday we celebrated the third anniversary of yet another "Gotcha Day," the day Ember joined our family.  Super-sweet Ember is my favorite subject to photograph now that my daughters are grown.  Here she is, lovely as ever, chilling with Forest:

(http://i198.photobucket.com/albums/aa188/ffrraann/IMG_0787_2.jpg)


Aw...

So cute, both of them!
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: Fran on January 26, 2013, 11:01:34 am
Thanks, Sonja.
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: Fran on February 13, 2013, 11:14:31 pm
Ember and Forest would like to wish everyone a Happy Valentine's Day:

(http://i198.photobucket.com/albums/aa188/ffrraann/Picture15_zps2b8b4bb7.png)

(http://i198.photobucket.com/albums/aa188/ffrraann/IMG_0810_zpsf5a4370f.jpg)   (http://i198.photobucket.com/albums/aa188/ffrraann/IMG_0800_zpse5fad1a6.jpg)
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: Penthesilea on February 14, 2013, 01:42:26 am
Ember and Forest would like to wish everyone a Happy Valentine's Day:

(http://i198.photobucket.com/albums/aa188/ffrraann/Picture15_zps2b8b4bb7.png)

(http://i198.photobucket.com/albums/aa188/ffrraann/IMG_0810_zpsf5a4370f.jpg)   (http://i198.photobucket.com/albums/aa188/ffrraann/IMG_0800_zpse5fad1a6.jpg)


Awww! :)
If Valentine's were a big deal here, I'd snatch one of those and send it to someone. You're talented!
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: delalluvia on February 14, 2013, 08:23:58 pm
Awwwwwwwwwwwww.  ;D

I just want to grab and start kissing doggie noses.   :-* :-* :-*
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: Front-Ranger on February 14, 2013, 09:39:53 pm
Thank you, Ember and Forest!
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: Sason on February 15, 2013, 06:57:01 pm
I hope Ember and Forest had a happy Valentine Day too!   :)
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: delalluvia on February 20, 2013, 08:17:40 pm
Dang cats!

15th century equivalent of a cat walking on your keyboard:

http://www.theatlantic.com/technology/archive/2013/02/the-15th-century-equivalent-of-your-cat-walking-on-your-keyboard/273283/   ;D
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: Front-Ranger on February 20, 2013, 11:32:11 pm
Sweet!
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: CellarDweller on February 21, 2013, 08:38:57 am

 :laugh:  :laugh:  :laugh:



(http://sphotos-a.xx.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ash4/s480x480/267815_10151327161013581_87706106_n.jpg)
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: southendmd on February 21, 2013, 09:52:49 am
OMG, I almost spit up my coffee when I saw that.  The cat looks just like ours.  And he is evil.  I just didn't know he had a modeling career on the side.
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: CellarDweller on February 21, 2013, 10:35:14 am
OMG, I almost spit up my coffee when I saw that.  The cat looks just like ours.  And he is evil.  I just didn't know he had a modeling career on the side.

LOL  ;D
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: Kelda on February 24, 2013, 06:56:08 pm
Dang cats!

15th century equivalent of a cat walking on your keyboard:

http://www.theatlantic.com/technology/archive/2013/02/the-15th-century-equivalent-of-your-cat-walking-on-your-keyboard/273283/   ;D

 :laugh: :laugh:

Oh and the cat looks like my kitty cat Skimble too!
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: CellarDweller on February 25, 2013, 03:28:03 pm
Dang cats!

15th century equivalent of a cat walking on your keyboard:

http://www.theatlantic.com/technology/archive/2013/02/the-15th-century-equivalent-of-your-cat-walking-on-your-keyboard/273283/   ;D

I love the comment above the pic at the link.

I'm in ur manuscript, making a mess.
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: CellarDweller on April 22, 2013, 09:48:58 pm
(http://i1123.photobucket.com/albums/l543/jakeheathfan/1984_madonna_04.jpg)
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: Kelda on April 23, 2013, 02:50:39 pm
 ;D
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: delalluvia on July 20, 2013, 04:39:52 pm
Sweet Shoep has passed on.  :'(  His last year was made more comfortable by compassionate people who donated for his care.

RIP good doggy.

(http://i1358.photobucket.com/albums/q775/kumudin_photos1/schoep1_635x250_1374252867_zps1f87ae50.jpg)

http://shine.yahoo.com/pets/schoep-arthritic-dog-whose-photo-touched-millions-dies-181600152.html?bcmt=1374264999182-01980943-2674-49f6-ac80-f365037a465c&bcmt_s=u#ugccmt-container
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: Penthesilea on August 01, 2013, 07:03:08 am

(http://i575.photobucket.com/albums/ss192/Penthesilea09/CIMG0394-001_zpsfe472eaf.jpg) (http://s575.photobucket.com/user/Penthesilea09/media/CIMG0394-001_zpsfe472eaf.jpg.html)

Tina and Cäsar having a joned Siesta under the garden table in the midday heat. :)
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: CellarDweller on August 01, 2013, 08:34:00 am
awwww!
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: CellarDweller on August 26, 2013, 06:52:00 pm
:laugh:

guilty cat!


[youtube=425,350]http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6a8ZfHrY-AU[/youtube]
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: Kelda on September 13, 2013, 03:50:30 pm
User has removed the video?
Title: Halloween pet safety
Post by: CellarDweller on October 28, 2013, 10:56:46 pm
Hiya pet lovers!

Just a reminder that this Wednesday is (depending on where you are) "Mischief Night" or "Devils' Night", a night where kids and teens (and perhaps young 'adults') go out and pull pranks.

Of course, there are those who take it too far and cause damage and vandalize, and unfortunately, animals are a target.  If you have a pet, keep it indoors to prevent it from being stolen or hurt in any way.  Black cats are a particular target.

I will never forget going outside on Halloween morning and seeing "Tina", a neighborhood cat that would never stay with anyone, but frequented our home, covered in kerosene.  I don't know who did that to her, but it was my hope that she bit and clawed the hell out of them when she escaped.

She trusted my family, so we were able to box her up and get her to a vet, where they cleaned her, and treated her for all the kerosene she ingested trying to clean herself off.
Title: Re: Halloween pet safety
Post by: Penthesilea on October 29, 2013, 02:36:32 am
I will never forget going outside on Halloween morning and seeing "Tina", a neighborhood cat that would never stay with anyone, but frequented our home, covered in kerosene.  I don't know who did that to her, but it was my hope that she bit and clawed the hell out of them when she escaped.


 >:( >:( >:(
How could they? Incomprehensible.


Quote
She trusted my family, so we were able to box her up and get her to a vet, where they cleaned her, and treated her for all the kerosene she ingested trying to clean herself off.

Your family is good people.
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: CellarDweller on July 11, 2016, 09:21:11 pm

most recent pics of Blaze.



(http://i327.photobucket.com/albums/k463/dcfmod/IMG_0464.jpg)
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: CellarDweller on July 11, 2016, 09:22:13 pm

with his new toy, which distracts him while he's  being groomed.

(http://i327.photobucket.com/albums/k463/dcfmod/IMG_0458.jpg)
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: CellarDweller on July 11, 2016, 09:23:44 pm

showing the belly!


(http://i327.photobucket.com/albums/k463/dcfmod/IMG_0468.jpg)



Mom says since he's been groomed, he's much more 'cuddly' and friendly.
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: CellarDweller on December 04, 2017, 09:24:53 pm
The tree is up, and Blaze has his yearly resting spot back!


(https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4554/37954913595_1b6d4d1ab5_b.jpg)
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: Sason on December 05, 2017, 04:55:13 pm
Aww.....Blaze!

Does he ever try to climb it?
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: CellarDweller on December 05, 2017, 07:31:34 pm
He  only did once, as a kitten.

I had been given a Brokeback ornament, that had a few bells on it.   When he walked under the tree, his tail would make the branches shake, and they would make the bells ring, and he'd charge up the tree to get the ornament.

Once I removed it, the problem was solved.   When he was older, the ornament got back on the tree.

:laugh:
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: Sason on December 05, 2017, 07:54:24 pm
Hope the tree didn't fall over him!
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: CellarDweller on January 01, 2018, 05:33:26 pm
Hiya animal lovers!

I got two calendars for 2018.   A comic/comedy one for work, and for home, a RescueMen USA calendar.

It features sexy guys, but fully dressed.  They are posing with their pets, which they rescued from  shelters.  Hence the title, "RescueMen".

You don't actually buy the calendar.  You make a $25.00 donation, which goes to support animal shelters.


(http://nebula.wsimg.com/c75ca33f8c2af27bd3480502a3a90a12?AccessKeyId=8CB2D4328688C1D740D5&disposition=0&alloworigin=1)


Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: CellarDweller on January 01, 2018, 05:34:58 pm
This is a guy from the 2016 calendar.

I want to find him, and marry him!    :laugh:




(https://moderndogmagazine.com/sites/default/files/styles/466-wide/public/images/productpick/images/Tails%20of%20NYC%20-%20Rescue%20Men.png?itok=Eb5PVA8V)
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: Front-Ranger on January 01, 2018, 06:03:45 pm
Adorable calendar! Can we see more??
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: CellarDweller on January 02, 2018, 06:19:34 pm
Hiya  Lee!

you can  see this year's pics in the slide show (and if you choose, order the calendar) at the link below.


http://www.rescuemen.org/


A gallery of past guys in prior calendars is at this link.

http://www.rescuemen.org/rescuemen-gallery.html
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: Sason on January 04, 2018, 03:38:28 pm
This is a guy from the 2016 calendar.

I want to find him, and marry him!    :laugh:




(https://moderndogmagazine.com/sites/default/files/styles/466-wide/public/images/productpick/images/Tails%20of%20NYC%20-%20Rescue%20Men.png?itok=Eb5PVA8V)


But what about the bunnies???

Will there be room for them in your happy marriage?

I worry about them!
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: CellarDweller on January 04, 2018, 06:48:23 pm
But what about the bunnies???

Will there be room for them in your happy marriage?

I worry about them!


There's always room for bunnies, they're very tasty!

:o

Just kidding!!!  I've had two bunnies as pets in the past,  "Peter Cottontail" and "Cuddles".  They were great pets.
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: Sason on January 05, 2018, 04:26:53 pm
Well, I was thinking myself that if you don't want them to interfere in your happy relationship, you could always cook them!  :o ;D
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: CellarDweller on January 05, 2018, 10:02:14 pm
I would never eat da bunnies!
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: Sason on January 07, 2018, 02:48:29 pm
You never know..... if your husband loves them cooked, maybe you'll do it for him....
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: CellarDweller on January 08, 2018, 07:36:06 pm
I don't think so!!!!
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: brianr on January 08, 2018, 08:43:56 pm
While I agree I could not eat a pet bunny, yet here in both Australia and NZ rabbits are pests, they are banned as pets in some states.  When I was young we often had rabbit, it was called the poor man's chicken. However now chicken is cheap so you rarely see rabbit for sale in butcher shops.
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: CellarDweller on January 09, 2018, 06:45:38 pm
you are right, I've heard a number of people describe rabbits as pests.   Here in my area, they are seen as pets, so I would have a very difficult time eating one.
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: CellarDweller on April 08, 2018, 04:35:11 pm

Some new pics of Blaze.

Well,  parts of Blaze.   :laugh:

Two shots of him sleeping inside a bag that he thinks he fits in.



(https://farm1.staticflickr.com/880/41325983251_f1e1f377a6_z.jpg)
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: CellarDweller on April 08, 2018, 04:35:37 pm

(https://farm1.staticflickr.com/813/40429999415_f87408649c_z.jpg)
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: CellarDweller on April 08, 2018, 07:03:18 pm
It appears I'll be having some guests outside my apartment soon! Yesterday I opened my blinds, and there were two birds just starting a nest. I startled them and they flew off. I closed the blinds and haven't looked back until now (Sunday evening). The nest is bigger, so they've been back. Let's see if a family takes root here.


(https://farm1.staticflickr.com/792/39519033040_fc8d766600_z.jpg)
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: Front-Ranger on April 09, 2018, 09:53:37 am
(https://farm1.staticflickr.com/880/41325983251_f1e1f377a6_z.jpg)

haha, he looks like an ostrich with its head in the sand!

Congratulations on your mourning dove family! Can you set up your blinds so you can see them but they can't see you?
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: CellarDweller on April 09, 2018, 06:29:42 pm
Yeah, he does look like that, doesn't he?

As for the bird family, I'm not sure about setting the blinds that way.  I'm going to try.  I want them used to seeing me, and realizing I'm not trying to get them.
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: Sason on April 10, 2018, 04:06:53 pm
Some new pics of Blaze.

Well,  parts of Blaze.   :laugh:

Two shots of him sleeping inside a bag that he thinks he fits in.



(https://farm1.staticflickr.com/880/41325983251_f1e1f377a6_z.jpg)

LOL, too cute!

And he very fittingly chose to "hide" in a bag with a cat on it!   :laugh:

Is it just me, or has he become more brown over the years instead of black?
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: CellarDweller on April 12, 2018, 07:28:26 pm
I think it's the way the light catchings his coat.   Under some lighting, he appears black.  Other times, he seems to have a lot of brown highlights.  LOL
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: Sason on April 13, 2018, 06:52:40 pm
Makes sense.
The cat we had when I grew up was black, but in certain lighting he seemed more brown.
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: CellarDweller on April 13, 2018, 07:29:06 pm
Yeah, his highlights are showing.   :laugh:
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: CellarDweller on April 14, 2018, 11:48:50 am
Looks like the nest is complete, and momma is sitting there getting prepared for eggs, if they come.

I had to circle the bird/nest, because I couldn't get too close without frightening her, and I didn't want to fly off.

I need to clean the bedroom windows (as you can see - LOL) but I don't think I can do that without sending her flying, so I guess that will have to wait.




(https://farm1.staticflickr.com/806/40738133174_cb2e331132_b.jpg)
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: CellarDweller on April 14, 2018, 07:09:41 pm
This nesting update is not much of an update.  LOL  Momma bird has flown the coop, apparently to get food.  I can now confirm that there are no eggs in the nest as yet. 

Good news is while she was gone, I was able to open and clean both sides of the windows, as well as relocate my Super Friends to dust/clean the dresser top, so when she gets back, the work is done and she can be seen without startling her.
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: CellarDweller on April 17, 2018, 07:13:08 pm
It looks like my Mourning Dove has officially flown the coop permanently.

The nest is still together and undisturbed, but the bird hasn't been around the past two days.  I've checked during various times, and the nest remains empty.

I hadn't seen any other birds or animals  on the fire escape, I can only speculate that perhaps they found a more desirable location for a nest, and made a new one.
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: CellarDweller on April 22, 2018, 05:40:01 pm
The Canadian organization Tiny Kittens has a bunch of new occupants now!

They go into feral colonies of cats, and trap and treat the cats the capture.  Any that can be socialized are, and then they are adopted out.   Those that are too feral, are taken to a vet and spayed and neutered, and then released back into their colony, so they can't increase the numbers.

Last week they captured three pregnant cats, and they are working to socialize them, and give them a safe place to have their litters.

As of today, all the cats have given birth, and there are 12 new kittens that will be spayed and neutered and then adopted out.
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: CellarDweller on July 14, 2018, 10:00:31 pm
here are two pics of Blaze, who got his usual summer cut last weekend.

(https://farm2.staticflickr.com/1808/43365329692_184fa1a689_z.jpg)
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: CellarDweller on July 14, 2018, 10:01:02 pm

(https://farm1.staticflickr.com/842/42696673184_720428f4ed_z.jpg)
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: Front-Ranger on July 15, 2018, 01:06:20 am
What a cute cat!
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: CellarDweller on July 16, 2018, 06:19:04 pm
He's definitely much cooler now that the fur is shaved down!
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: CellarDweller on April 04, 2020, 11:51:46 pm

Blaze went to the vets to have his fur cut down again.

;D

He's resting here, with a new friend that mom gave him.   :laugh:



(https://scontent.fewr1-6.fna.fbcdn.net/v/t1.0-9/92244169_1536585233170983_6138493540071636992_n.jpg?_nc_cat=103&_nc_sid=8024bb&_nc_ohc=MebfQp0ln3QAX9twhx6&_nc_ht=scontent.fewr1-6.fna&oh=7ddcf480db2052a271d608352e10ea2d&oe=5EB0A840)
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: Penthesilea on April 05, 2020, 10:15:01 am
Blaze went to the vets to have his fur cut down again.

;D

He's resting here, with a new friend that mom gave him.   :laugh:



(https://scontent.fewr1-6.fna.fbcdn.net/v/t1.0-9/92244169_1536585233170983_6138493540071636992_n.jpg?_nc_cat=103&_nc_sid=8024bb&_nc_ohc=MebfQp0ln3QAX9twhx6&_nc_ht=scontent.fewr1-6.fna&oh=7ddcf480db2052a271d608352e10ea2d&oe=5EB0A840)


Is he a strictly indoor cat? I wonder if he wouldn't get sunburn when shaved?
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: Sason on April 05, 2020, 04:33:58 pm
Poor Blaze, he looks none too pleased!  ;D
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: CellarDweller on April 05, 2020, 08:13:00 pm
Is he a strictly indoor cat? I wonder if he wouldn't get sunburn when shaved?

Yes, he's an indoor cat only.  I think in most urban areas, cats are indoor pets.  Letting them out is frowned upon, as they will hunt local animals, or get hit by cars.

Poor Blaze, he looks none too pleased!  ;D


He actually likes being short-haired, although he does not like the process of having it done. 

Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: Front-Ranger on April 11, 2020, 05:10:50 pm
I miss my cat Luna terribly but according to my ex, she's happy in her mountain home.
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: Jeff Wrangler on April 11, 2020, 10:10:13 pm
I miss my cat Luna terribly but according to my ex, she's happy in her mountain home.

Looks to me like she's glaring at you for leaving her behind.  :(
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: Front-Ranger on April 12, 2020, 01:29:51 pm
haha, that is her natural expression. What she is really thinking is, "When will you put that thing down so I can come over and cuddle with you?"
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: Front-Ranger on April 12, 2020, 08:42:39 pm
Another portrait of her.
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: CellarDweller on April 13, 2020, 11:56:24 am
Nice pics of her!
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: CellarDweller on May 08, 2020, 08:17:48 pm

Hiya everyone. Just wanted to give you a post here to let you all know that we had to say good-bye to Blaze today. Mom & Dad had to take him to the vet, and they advised mom and dad that it was time. They did what they needed to do outside, so my parents could be with him, because mom and dad couldn't enter the vet's office due to the virus.

We'll miss you, Blaze. Thanks for the laughs and love you gave.



Blaze as a kitten

(https://scontent.fewr1-6.fna.fbcdn.net/v/t1.0-9/96045355_10158071042067348_5519737766608371712_n.jpg?_nc_cat=111&_nc_sid=8024bb&_nc_ohc=J_J7jeIv-D0AX_gxcSj&_nc_ht=scontent.fewr1-6.fna&oh=ddcb3c27f349a7bb0e485bc0df4759a9&oe=5EDB7B03)
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: CellarDweller on May 08, 2020, 08:18:30 pm

Blaze as a young cat, with his massive tail.


(https://scontent.fewr1-6.fna.fbcdn.net/v/t1.0-9/95808464_10158071042987348_2184655872687341568_n.jpg?_nc_cat=109&_nc_sid=8024bb&_nc_ohc=YtXgHb8HaUkAX9226Ed&_nc_ht=scontent.fewr1-6.fna&oh=d84177ccdedb8360f99248c5039cc948&oe=5EDA6B6A)
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: CellarDweller on May 08, 2020, 08:19:06 pm


Blaze as an older cat


(https://scontent.fewr1-6.fna.fbcdn.net/v/t1.0-9/95633965_10158071043917348_3787984069275418624_n.jpg?_nc_cat=109&_nc_sid=8024bb&_nc_ohc=g5NiYHdvmHQAX86PANw&_nc_ht=scontent.fewr1-6.fna&oh=b3ded3af0035095492110f0e0e324b7a&oe=5EDD6CAC)
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: CellarDweller on May 08, 2020, 08:19:40 pm

The last pic that I took of Blaze, this past Sunday, resting under a blanket.


(https://scontent.fewr1-5.fna.fbcdn.net/v/t1.0-9/95749785_10158071046242348_1313577178675281920_n.jpg?_nc_cat=105&_nc_sid=8024bb&_nc_ohc=RBYL381hncEAX-MRaW1&_nc_ht=scontent.fewr1-5.fna&oh=e7ca93bb98f75f9c8886eac7896fda01&oe=5EDB385E)
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: southendmd on May 09, 2020, 08:40:49 am
Oh Chuck, how sad.  I'm so sorry for you and your family.  Sweet little Blaze.
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: Sason on May 09, 2020, 04:07:13 pm
I'm so sorry for you and your family, Chuck. Poor little Blaze.

Did they ever find out what was wrong with him?

I hope your parents will get over the loss.
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: CellarDweller on May 09, 2020, 05:48:16 pm
They said he had edema, but couldn't find out what the cause of that was.

The nurse said he most likely was suffering some discomfort, and that's what helped mom make the decision to do what had to be done.  It will be an adjustment for them, but they'll be fine.
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: Sason on May 09, 2020, 06:50:48 pm
A lot better than to let him suffer.

I'm glad she's at peace with her decision.
Title: Re: Animals In Our Lives
Post by: Front-Ranger on May 09, 2020, 07:41:00 pm
He went out in a Blaze of glory. May he rest in peace. Love that photo of him resting under a blanket.  :-*